A SCHOOL caretaker will take part in a half marathon to raise money for a young cancer sufferer at his school.

Jon Adams, 51, who has been a caretaker at Norton Primary School, near Stockton, for 20 years, won free entry into the Redcar Half Marathon, organised by Tees Valley Leisure, for sharing his story about why he wanted to take part.

He decided to compete in the event on behalf of pupil Kieran Garbutt.

Kieran, eight, from Norton, has been battling bone cancer and his family are keen for Mr Adams to help him raise money for his favourite charity, Charlie Bear Cancer Care.

Mr Adams was delighted to help and is training at his local gym to get in shape for the event, on Sunday, April 19.

He said: “Kieran has just returned to school after gruelling treatment. When I see him, it brings it home how tough it must be for him and his family.

“Many children like Kieran are having to face so many challenges early on in their lives, and the children’s cancer charities are so important in providing sick children and their families with the support they need through these difficult times.

“I wanted to set myself a challenge to do something worthwhile to help raise funds for this worthy cause.”

Headteacher Susan Dawson said: “As a school, we are all incredibly proud of the courage Kieran has demonstrated since he began his treatment last year.

“With his family supporting him, he has kept on smiling throughout and has been an inspiration to us all, including Jon Adams, who has taken up this challenge in support of this extremely worthwhile charity. Now, we are very proud of them both.”

Paddy Corcoran, head of Tees Valley Leisure, said: “We are urging people to follow Jon’s lead and enter the Redcar Half Marathon to get fit and healthy, and to help raise badly-needed funds for good causes.

“We are hoping to beat all previous records and recruit even more people this year.

Our target is 2,000 runners.”

To take part in the event, or the 3km family fun run, in the grounds of Kirkleatham Showfield on the same day, complete the form below, call 01642- 452488 or go to teesvalley leisure.co.uk. All entrants will get a T-shirt and goody bag.