Roger to tackle Great North Run

Roger Finning, 43, of Windsor Road, is putting the final preparations in place before tackling the 13-mile Great North Run on September 30.

Three years ago Roger weighed 20-stone, drank and smoked too much and was on medication for high blood pressure.

But he made a decision to change his life and in the last three years Roger has lost seven stone in weight, enrolled at the University of Sussex and completed a degree.

Roger, who works at the Lawn Court mental health home, said: "I barely recognise the man I used to be; it was being surrounded by all these young, slim people at university that gave me the motivation to get fit. They say life starts at 40, well it certainly did for me."

He started a running programme than involved him training every other day and he has since completed five half marathons and one marathon.

Roger said: "I have so much more energy now, as I'm more physically fit I just feel better in my self and have a different mentality towards life when you cross that finishing line the feeling is absolutely fantastic"

He completed his first marathon last year when he ran the Beachy Head Marathon in Eastbourne; known for its sea views and challenging routes.

Roger added: "Since I was lucky enough to get a place on this high profile race I wanted to make sure I chose a worthy charity to fundraise for, which is why I chose Marie Curie Cancer Care."

If anyone would like to sponsor Roger (pictured) they can pop into Final Score Sports Shop at 45, St Leonards Road Bexhill or visit www.justgiving.com/rogerfinning