AMBITIOUS Trowbridge runner Ian McKee is aiming to break the three-hour barrier when he takes on his first London Marathon in aid of the Cystic Fibrosis Trust at the end of the month.

The 31-year-old, who lives in the Newtown area with his wife Debi, wants to raise £2,000 for the charity as when he was growing up in Surrey he had two close friends with the genetic disorder, one of whom died in 2011 aged just 25.

Cystic Fibrosis is an inherited disease in which the lungs and digestive system become clogged with mucus, causing problems with breathing and digestion of food.

Mr McKee, who works in public relations, has set himself the challenging target of completing the London Marathon in less than three hours after running quick times in previous half marathons.

He said: “I've done a couple of half marathons before, Longleat Half and Bristol Half last year, and recently ran 1hr 26mins in the Bath Half, so while it is ambitious to aim for under three hours, I think it is possible.

“As a teenager I had two close friends with Cystic Fibrosis and unfortunately one of them died in 2011 when she was just 25 years old. My other friend is still battling the condition and she is 31 now, but has to deal with it in a more serious way.

“So it's a hugely important cause for me, but one I believe anyone can and should care about. I know how much work the Cystic Fibrosis Trust does towards implementing changes in the care system and providing support.

“People are now living beyond what was regarded as the average age expectancy and the trust has been a big part of that. They also do a lot of research that benefits those with Cystic Fibrosis.”

Mr McKee has already raised £1,300 towards the cause, but hopes to surpass the £2,000 mark. He is encouraging people and businesses in the area to help him reach his target.

The London Marathon takes place on April 26 and Mr McKee, who has already run as far as 22 miles during his training, is confident that with the support of the crowd he will be able to achieve his goal.

Mr McKee added: “I’m feeling pretty good and my training has gone well overall. I’ve recently had a sore tendon in my right leg, which has been worrying me slightly, but a few days rest should sort that out.

“I train in and around Trowbridge, so I imagine many people in the area might recognise me and I’m really hoping some local people and businesses might be interested in supporting me.”

To donate, visit virginmoneygiving.com/IanMcKee or to find out more about Mr McKee’s progress, visit his blog at ianmck.ee/blog