A Charity trekker will be putting his best foot forward in three long-distance events this year.Graham Dove is determined to complete more than 50 miles before his 50th birthday in aid of the Neem Tree Trust.
In 2004, the 49-year-old raised nearly £1,000 for the trust by running the Bath Half Marathon.
This year he is hoping to complete the Watford Half Marathon on Sunday, February 4, the Bath Half Marathon on Sunday, March 25, and the Taunton Marathon on Sunday, April 1.
Mr Dove started training in the run-up to Christmas, and now regularly runs five times a week, often covering more than 20 miles.
He said: “I’m not going to go flat out for the first two half-marathons, and will hopefully save my strength for the Taunton race.
“I’ve always been interested in the work of the Neem Tree Trust. It is a small local charity that needs support.
“I’m looking to raise as much as possible for them as they really do some amazing work.”
Kathy Miller, founder of the charity, said: “The money raised from this year’s events will go towards paying for a generator for the home, and help the doctor there who is trying to get a better water supply.”
Graham with some thoughts on how he feels about running the Taunton Marathon on Sunday 1st of April
“I’m feeling a little apprehensive about the marathon now – after all it is a long way. But feeling fit and well and now just want to get the thing over with – and not collapse half way round.
I have been very pleased with my performance so far, which must be due to all that training – 5 times a week from Christmas. I am also grateful for all the support I have had and the tremendous response re sponsorship – almost £1,400 now.”