ALEX Thomas is running up a big bill for sponsors in his bid to raise thousands for charity in this year's London Marathon.

The 53-year-old, from Gorse Covert, is part of a 34-strong national running team raising funds for the British aid agency Health Unlimited.

Alex, who has been running in the North West Corporate Cup Series and various half-marathons and fun runs for about six years, has been building up a mileage 30 miles a week in the cycle and foot paths of Birchwood in preparation for the big 24-mile slog.

There have been some unforeseen obstacles in his training regime though.

He said: "The foot-and-mouth crisis has meant farms are closed and I have not been able to run there. I was due to run in the Wilmslow half marathon, but it was cancelled because of the crisis."

Alex has been supporting Health Unlimited, which is this year's Blue Peter charity, for the past two years and hopes to raise a minimum of £1,000 - but is aiming for twice as much.

He added: "I saw a mailshot about the charity with my company. I ran with them last year and overall over the two years. I should raise £2,000. All my sponsors have been really impressed by Health Unlimited's work."

The money raised by the Health Unlimited team will support the charity's projects in helping victims of conflict and persecution in Asia, Africa and Latin America.

Initiatives include providing communities with the practical health care, training and support they need to rebuild their lives.

Anyone who would like to support Alex can send a donation to Health Unlimited, Freepost, SE6790, London, SE17UX.