BROTHERLY love has inspired a man to run 26.2miles to raise funds for a cystic fibrosis charity.

Lawrence Priddle, 22, of Lovelace Gardens, Southend, will run the Isle of Wight Marathon for the second year in a row in October.

He is pulling on his running shoes in aid of the National Cystic Fibrosis Trust after being inspired by his 15-month-old sister, Calico Priddle, who was diagnosed with the disease, which affects the lungs and digestive system, last year.

He said: “When she was first diagnosed it was horrible. I’d never heard of cystic fibrosis so there was a lot to learn.

“Now she’s doing really well.

She really benefits from the support from the charities and is getting better all the time.

“They pay for travel expenses for her hospital appointments in London, and she gets a grant each year to help buy exercise equipment, which keeps her healthy and active.”

Lawrence raised £2,500 for the Southend Cystic Fibrosis Trust last year, and hopes to beat his target and time this year.

He said: “I want to do it in under four hours. Last year I ran for the Southend branch of the charity with my sister in mind, but this year I want to run for the national charity which tries to find a cure for it.”

Lawrence, who is also a semi-professional football player for his local non-league team, Southend Manor, said he is looking forward to the marathon.

He added: “I’ve always done a lot of running anyway, and I love doing it.

“My family came last year to cheer me on and they’ll be doing the same this year.”

To support Lawrence, visit www.justgiving.com/lawrence -priddle2