Visually impaired Vic set to raise hundreds of pounds at Shrewsbury Marathon

Vic Davies, from Church Stretton, agreed to run the race after reading a Twitter message from the disability network asking for volunteers to raise funds for them.

Mr Davies, 51, is partially sighted and was recently forced to give up cycling due to his condition.

But he has agreed to put on his running shoes in aid of the Shropshire Disability Network. The group's publicity officer, Ruby Hartshorn, said: "This was great news for SDN, Vic, from

Church Stretton, has severe visual impairment so has had to give up cycling but he enjoys running and has run many half marathons and has often thought about running for charity – but which one and how do you choose?

"He has written a brilliant blog for us about why he likes to run."

Mr Davies, a father-of-three, is also planning to run the Lake Vyrnwy marathon in September.

He said he was looking forward to the Shrewsbury race. He said: "I think it is really nice that it is in the town and laps though the centre."

Mr Davies hopes to raise between £250 and £300 through his efforts.

His has been keeping a blog about his training efforts which can be read at www.shropshire-disability.net

To sponsor him contact Mr Davies on 07800 929100 or Ruby on (01743) 340832. Or send a cheque made payable to Shropshire Disability Network with the reference Vic 1 written on the back and post to SDN Fund-Raising Lead, 26 Aldwick Drive, Radbrook Green, Shrewsbury SY3 6BN.

People can also donate by using their mobile phone. The text message is free and if you are a UK Taxpayer, every pound donated can be Gift Aided to the SDN at no extra cost. This means an extra 25p for each £1 donated. Text SHDN12 £1 and send to 70070.