A MAN who ran the Wrexham Half Marathon in February is now hoping to tackle the London Marathon next year.

Steffan Carter, a technical analyst from Wrexham, first laced up his trainers for the 13.1 mile Village Bakery Wrexham Half route on February 17.

The 36-year-old took on the race with Brian Mapp, 53, and Tom Owen, 36, in memory of their friend and colleague Jamie Davies.

Mr Davies, who was partially sighted, was a valued member of the IT support team at Wrexham Council.

He died in March 2018 aged 46, leaving behind his wife Cathie and daughter Bethan.

In November 2018, Steffan, Brian and Tom joined forces to take on the half marathon and raise crucial awareness and funds for RNIB.

The trio raised almost £1,750 for the charity and all completed the race in less than two and a half hours.

Now Mr Carter has his sights on the 26.2 mile London Marathon in April 2020, and has applied to run it solo for Team RNIB.

He said: “Jamie was more than a work colleague, he was a wonderful friend.

"He never let his sight loss prevent him from doing the things he loved, whether that was playing football or riding his bike to work.

"Our department was hit hard by his loss. We wanted to do something to keep Jamie’s memory alive and support his family.

“The Wrexham Half was a tough but amazing experience.

"We were proud to be wearing our RNIB vests, and our friends and Jamie’s family were on the route to cheer us on.

"Crossing the finish line was quite emotional, we were amazed that so many people gave their money and time to support us on our mission.

“I’m still running at least once a week to prepare for my next challenge.

"The London Marathon will be a big step up, but I will be excited to support RNIB again and even hope to beat my previous fundraising total."

Ansley Workman, director for RNIB Cymru, said: “We’re delighted Steffan, Brian and Tom chose to take on the Wrexham Half Marathon in support of RNIB.

"The money they raised enables RNIB to continue breaking down barriers for blind and partially sighted people.

"We will be cheering for Steffan when he takes on the London Marathon challenge and wish him the best of luck.”

To find out more about fundraising for RNIB contact cymru@rnib.org.uk