A KEEN runner from Penn Hill will be taking on his 18th Poole Festival of Running next month in aid of Poole Hospital Charity.

James Fuller, 51, says that he has never missed an event since he first took part almost two decades ago, in the annual event being held in Poole Park for children and adults on Sunday, June 1.

He said: “I stayed with my sister after I moved from Coventry and she was taking part in the Poole Festival of Running and asked if I wanted to as well. I said ‘Yes’ because I am into running anyway and also said that I would do it each year thereafter."

James, who also completed his 100th ParkRun event on Saturday, April 26, added: “I do find it easy to run. I’m a natural runner and I like to make the most of the skill I’ve been given.

“It’s a celebration of life, so why not use it to your advantage?”

James says that his training for the 10k involves running to the beach three to four times a week, to make the most of the fantastic beaches in Dorset, and cycling to work in Poole town centre every day.

Previously, he has taken part in the London Marathon, which he completed in 2000, and has also cycled from Land’s End to John O’Groats.

Poole Festival of Running features four events including the Poole 10k Race and the Daily Echo-backed Dorset Cancer Centre 5k, which are both suitable for adults and any young people aged 15 and over.

There are also races for children.

For more information, go to poolerunners.com