A man is taking part in the London Marathon as a thank you to those who saved his life with a kidney transplant.

Just over a year ago, Harry Burrell, 32, from Pannal, Harrogate, underwent the lifesaving operation at St James' Hospital, Leeds.

He had been suffering from kidney failure since he was 15, facing dialysis treatment three times a week.

Mr Burrell hopes to raise £1,000 for the National Kidney Research Fund to thank his lifesavers.

His introduction to running started when he trained twice a week with Harrogate Harriers in April last year.

Last September, he took part in the Harrogate Theatre 10k Race and enjoyed it so much he decided to try the marathon.

Mr Burrell said his training along the byways west of Harrogate was on course and that he was looking forward to taking part in the big event in London on April 17.

His chosen charity campaigns to find solutions to the constant shortage of donated organs and provides funding for more than 100 projects.

To sponsor Mr Burrell, call (01423) 871307.