A MAN is running a half marathon to say thank you to the charity helping his family.

Leigh Dale, 33, of Sullivan Way, Laindon, will be in Newcastle during the Great North Run to raise cash for Diabetes UK.

Leigh’s mum, dad and cousin all live with diabetes and inspired him to turn his running hobby into a fundraiser with a target of £350.

Leigh said: “I’ve seen the effect that diabetes has had on the lives of people close to me. Since my mum and dad were diagnosed I have become aware of how they have to change their lifestyle, and how much they use the Diabetes UK website for advice. That’s what triggered me to raise the money.

“I really want to not only raise awareness about the condition but also help to raise money so more people like my family can get help and support.

“I’m really looking forward to the run now and can’t wait.”

Running, like other forms of physical activity, can help people stay fit and maintain a healthy weight, and so reduce their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

He has already tested himself by running the full 13.1mile distance around Essex. Now he is racing round friends and family to bring in the donations before he runs the race on September 15.

Diabetes UK’s eastern regional manager, Sharon Roberts, said: “On behalf of everyone at Diabetes UK, I would like to thank Leigh for signing up to take part in the Bupa Great North Run.

“Money raised from the Bupa Great Run Series will be used to fund Diabetes UK Healthy Lifestyle Roadshows which take place across the UK. These roadshows will help to raise awareness of the risk factors of Type 2 diabetes and to identify some of the estimated 850,000 people in the UK who already have the condition and don’t know it.”

To sponsor Leigh justgiving.com/Leigh-Dale1