THE chair of the trustees of Shalom House will join 36,000 other runners next month in taking on the Virgin Money London Marathon.

This is not the first time Bryan Rees has run the 26.2 mile course; he did it last year raising more than £1,000 for the palliative care centre in St Davids.

Bryan, who lives in Llechryd, has run eight marathons over the past nine years, raising more than £12,000 for a prostate cancer charity.

The 64-year-old’s best time was two years ago when he completed the course in four hours and four minutes.

He said: “Running through London with runners of all ages and abilities and finishing in the Mall is the most exhilarating experience you can imagine. Throughout the 26.2 miles there are hundreds of thousand people cheering and encouraging every runner, some offering orange segments, jelly babies or pieces of chocolate which are gratefully received.”

He added: “Shalom House has had tough time financially and I really want to help make a difference with raising a significant amount money for the hospice which really helps our community.”

Shalom House opened its doors in 2007 after a decade of fundraising in Pembrokeshire led by Margaret Burnett, the founder trustee. Its aim is to provide care for people with a life-limiting illness and also support for their families and friends.

Last November the charity announced that it was to end 24-hour care due to financial constraints, and now offers day services only.

If you want to support Bryan, donations can be made through his Just Giving Page, by emailing info@shalomstdavids.org or by calling 01437 721344.