HOPEFUL runner Russell Batten will fulfil a childhood ambition by stepping out from behind his office desk and putting on his running shoes this weekend as he takes part in the London Marathon.

Mr Batten, 42, of the Pastures, Westwood, has never tackled a marathon before and will consider himself a lucky man if he can finish the race while hitting his fundraising target of £1,800 for Spinal Research.

He said: “Over the last few years I have heard about the charity and its work and I know a few people who have spinal cord injuries. The charity is there to provide research into spinal repairs and I know very well how its work will benefit people I know from the money raised.”

Mr Batten, who works at the housing department at Wiltshire Council, said it has been a life-long ambition to run the 26.2-mile round course in the capital.

He said: “It is a wonderful combination of nervousness and genuine excitement to take part in the race. I have always wanted to run a London marathon since I was a teenager and I watch the event on the television mostly every year.

“I’m looking forward to running over Tower Bridge but understandably I am nervous as the longest distance I’ve run is 20 miles.”

Mr Batten has previously taken part in the Bath Half Marathon but said this will be his one and only full marathon.

His wife and three children will be at the finishing line to meet him along with a handful of Westwood villagers who will be in London to show their support.

To donate, visit: uk.virginmoneygiving.com/RussellBatten