A FATHER from Holt is training for this year's London Marathon, which takes places just four days before his second child is due.

Mike Ralphs, 35, of Hawcroft, Holt, is currently in the middle of his training plan to get himself prepared for the big race on April 23.

The couple already have a daughter, Alexa, who is 20 months old.

After searching through the charities that have places available, Mr Ralphs happened upon VICTA, a charity supporting blind children and their families both nationally and here in Wiltshire.

“My children are the reason I'm running for VICTA. I couldn't imagine what families go through having to deal with blindness. Alexa has been very lucky and largely illness free so far so I wanted to raise money for families less fortunate than us,” Mr Ralphs said.

“Our second child is due on 27th so four days after the race. My wife Kirsty is still planning to attend to cheer me on. I will be running with my phone on loud just in case it all starts to happen. Our first child Alexa will be there to cheer me on too.”

So far Mr Ralphs has already raised nearly £500 out of £1,250, and is hoping to surpass his target for donations towards VICTA.

“I’ve had a great reaction from local companies, I am offering businesses the chance to sponsor a mile of my race for £50, I’d like to thank the businesses who have sponsored miles so far it’s been a great incentive to train that little bit harder,” Mr Ralphs said.

Anyone wishing to support Mr Ralphs and his fundraising efforts for VICTA can visit his donations page at www.virginmoneygiving.com/mikeralphs.