A FATHER ran to the hills to raise money for a charity that helps his disabled son.

Alistair Howes, from Wolsingham, took part in the Kielder Marathon earlier this month in aid of the Percy Hedley Foundation, where his wheelchair-bound son Jake, who is blind and has cerebal palsy, is a pupil.

Mr Howes completed the event in five hours and 36 minutes.

His partner, Helen Blackburn, said: "It was an incredible feat made all the more challenging by the gruelling heat, the rugged trail of riverbeds and the inclination of the hilly terrain.

"The Percy Hedley Foundation is a fantastic school which makes a real difference for all those who go there.

"It follows an integrated, conductive education approach which has given Jake increased mobility and specialises in communication, which has enabled Jake to talk and express his needs."

Mr Howes and Ms Blackburn are now preparing to walk the full circuit of Kielder Water during the Shepherds Walk Challenge in September, with Jake.

In October, Mr Howes will take part in the Kielder Marathon again.

To sponsor Mr Howes and help support the charity, visit justgiving.com/alistair-howes.