A teenager will run the London Marathon this year to raise money for Kids Cancer Charity.

Oaklands College student Tom Race chose to do the marathon on Sunday, April 24, after his friend’s younger brother died from cancer.

The 19-year-old hopes to raise £1,000 for the charity. It supports children who are suffering from cancer and their families.

He said: “My friend was only joking when he suggested I do the Marathon, but I’ve always enjoyed running so I decided to do it for real.

“I also wanted to do something to raise money for a charity that helped young people with cancer.

“My friend is still surprised and shocked that I’m doing this, but I know he is really thankful, and so are his mum and dad.”

Tom, who is a keen cross country runner, has begun preparing for the marathon by running twelve miles a day and going to the gym.

The Oaklands College student added: “I have an app on my phone that monitors my pulse and heart rate so I am slowly increasing my distance.”

Tom’s tutor Kevin Herron said: “We are all really proud of Tom for what he’s doing. It’s such a lovely thing to do for his friend.

“He’s a very determined young man and I’m sure he’ll hit his fundraising target. The whole department is behind him and we wish him all the luck in the world.”