A HUSBAND and wife team have put on their running shoes and set themselves the challenge of running 12 half marathons in 12 months.

Tim and Gayle Redman, both 42, of Flint, decided to spend 2018 by raising money for MIND, who work with people with mental health issues, by doing what they love most.

The pair enjoy long distance running and set themselves the challenge during the New Year to help those in need.

Tim said: “I don’t think people talk about it (mental health). I think it’s brushed under the carpet, especially from a male perspective people expect you to man up and get on with it.

“Sometimes people need to let their guard down and speak out about it. It’s important to get the message out there that people can talk about it before doing something silly like taking their own life.”

The 42-year-old said MIND is a charity close to his heart as he has suffered over the years with both anxiety and depression.

At the start of the year he had another breakdown and also started having epileptic type seizures which had a negative impact on his life.

He said despite this, he carried on taking part in his challenge, but had to miss a few or stop early.

Whilst having the seizures Tim lost his job as a driver to deliver training to GP practises which he said did not help his depression.

He added: “It’s been difficult for the two of us. Gayle is a GP (for Wrexham) and she’s been there for me. She has helped me, but she can’t treat me as a patient, she helps me as her husband.

“She has provided me with lots of support and encouragement to continue running and also with our challenge for the year.

“MIND is the best charity that works for both of us. It also raises awareness about mental health and getting people talking about it.

“It’s good fun, it keeps us active and we set this challenge to push ourselves. It’s also about getting fit over 40.”

The pair will be running the Disneyland Paris 5km and half marathon towards the end of the month and said if they earn over £400 they will complete the half marathon in fancy dress.

Tim has currently completed six half marathons and his wife Gayle has completed eight and both are determined to complete the challenge before December 31.

Anyone wishing to donate or show their support for the Flint couple can do so online at www.timboruns.com.