THE Daily Echo's Andy Nicholls is hoping it will be second time lucky when he takes part in this year's London Marathon in a few weeks' time.

Last year Andy did all the training for the top event but missed out on the big day due to a back injury sustained at the last minute.

Andy, 56, said: "I was gutted. To do all that training and not be able to run was heartbreaking. But I've put all that disappointment behind me, and hopefully I will stay injury-free and am able to line up on April 26."

Andy, the Daily Echo's Head of Content and New Media, will be raising funds for Bournemouth-based charity Help and Care.

He said: "A lot of the smaller charities need to raise their profile and say all the good work they are doing. But that costs money and at the moment, every penny counts.

"I am delighted to run for a local cause which is doing tremendous work here in this town and beyond. And hopefully through this publicity they will get a few extra pennies.

"Help and Care ensure that the elderly and those in need make the right choices for them. It can be baffling to sit down and fill in a form without the proper guidance. There is so much to choose from it can be overwhelming.

"Making sure the elderly have the necessary information, especially with constant legislation changes, is a necessity. And after all, most of us will grow old and need this kind of advice in years to come."

Andy has successfully completed two marathons, both in Bournemouth, but admits he's still a novice when it comes to the major long-distance event.

"The first time I was just glad to complete it, but I felt I could have done a faster time. On the second run I was carrying a foot injury and I struggled with cramp over the last few miles, but still finished. I am not aiming for a particular time. I just want to enjoy the big occasion and soak up the atmosphere. After all this is the London Marathon, one of the top events in the world."

Andy took up running seven years ago and during that time has raised thousands of pounds for charity from 10k events though to the marathon.

He said: "Each event is different and presents new challenges. All you can do is prepare as well as you can for the race and hopefully, everything works out on the day. The key is not to be deflated if the run is not going according to plan. Just finish it and move on. There's always another event around the corner."

Andy aims to complete around five major runs a year.

"I would love to fit in more, but I have a busy schedule. I will definitely run in the Bournemouth Marathon Festival for the third year running in October and I always try to fit in the Great South Run in Portsmouth just a few weeks later. For the other runs, I will try and freshen it up with a few new challenges."

To sponsor Andy please send cheques to Andy Nicholls, Daily Echo, Richmond Hill, Bournemouth, BH2 6HH, making sure the cheques are made payable to Help and Care. Alternatively, visit Andy's Virgin Money giving page at http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/AndyNicholls2 to make a donation.