A HALTON runner has been training hard for April's London Marathon so he can raise money for disabled charity Phab.

Philip Antrobus, of Chedworth Drive, Widnes, is no stranger to running after taking up the hobby a year ago and he successfully completed the BUPA Great North Run last September.

That race raised more than £700 for the Astmoor Day Services on Chadwick Road, where Philip's brother Brian attends.

The charity prides itself on offering activities that the disabled and able-bodied can take part in together and provides specialist equipment for events like rock-climbing in the Lake District and Exmoor.

Philip said: 'I know that I'm raising money for a national charity rather than my work colleagues specifically but some of the money could still go towards helping local people.

'Already, I have raised £750 towards the target thanks to sponsorship by work, friends and family - but I could really do with making £950 to reach 'gold band' status and be automatically entered in the London Marathon.

'I am particularly indebted to surface cleaners Blastaway UK, who gave me £200 of my current total, which is brilliant, a fantastic contribution.'

The London Marathon takes place on Sunday, April 23.

If you would like to sponsor Philip, visit www.justgiving.com/philipantrobus and leave a donation.