A MAN is pulling on his trainers to take part in his latest challenge and this time it is for a charity incredibly close to his heart.

Keld O'Shea is tackling the Windermere Marathon in aid of Real Life Options as a way of saying thank you to the charity which made such an impact on his parents life.

The charity, which has a base in Stockton where his parents lived, provides specialist support for people, and their families, who are struggling with the emotional and physical impact of Alzheimers.

Mr O'Shea's father Kevin passed away last August but the work the charity carried out in the final years of his wife meant that his mother Karen was able to enjoy some much needed respite.

"This charity was amazing for my mother," he said. "With their specialist help and support, she was able to look after him at home but more importantly she was able to get out do some things herself as she was able to trust them to look after my father the way she wanted.

"My mother used to look after him on her own, spending a great deal of time getting him ready and making sure that he was as happy as he could be.

"With the support of RLO in the last few years, my dad was given exceptional care from wonderful people. This care enabled my mum to do a few things by herself and recharge her batteries. It also meant that my dad was cared for at home which was an environment he was happy in.

"I'm not just running for Kevin, I'm running for all those people who live with Alzheimers, their spouses and partners and families and friends and all carers.

Every pound raised will go towards the people RLO support, helping to fund special projects to enhance their skills and social wellbeing.

"Every single donation, no matter how big or small, really does make a huge difference to the lives of all the people RLO support."

The Windermere Marathon is organised by The Brathay Trust who look to improve the life chances of children, young people and families by inspiring them to engage positively in their communities.

Taking on physical challenges in aid of charity is not new for Mr O'Shea.

Previously, the father-of-three, of Hurworth, near Darlington, has run marathons in aid of Action for Dystonia, Diagnosis, Education & Research (Adder), which has its roots in Middleton St George.

The charity helps families with dystonia, a little-known condition which affects the central nervous system.

For more information about Adder visit actionfordystonia.co.uk or visit www.reallifeoptions.org to learn about the charity his is supporting next Sunday.

To donate visit mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/keldoshea