A BLIND runner has told how he found his “sense of purpose” again in a race to the finish line.

Andrew Wood was diagnosed with depression in 2017 but didn’t want to rely on pills alone and was handed a more personal prescription, which urged him to find something he enjoyed.

Within weeks of joining his local running club, the Pudsey Pacers, he began pounding the streets with a feeling of pride.

Andrew told the Telegraph & Argus: “In the beginning when I started doing it it was more of a purpose to get out of the house and motivation.

“With running, you don’t have to be Mo Farah.

"You don’t have to be the best in the world.

“The sense of achievement when I cross that finish line.

"For me I don’t care if I come first or last. I’m just happy to do a race and I feel really proud.

“Over time it’s become something that I’ve loved and I can’t imagine my life now without the running.”

In his next challenge, Andrew is flying to Barcelona for his first half marathon where he will run in memory of his late brother.

His sibling Michael had Downsyndrome and passed away at the age of 23 in 2004.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus:

Andrew continued: “While he was alive he spent quite a lot of time at respite staying at Martin House Hospice.

“It’s hard to put into words.

“He was a character. He used to wind people up but not because he didn’t like them. It was his way of showing that he loved them.

“He liked to help people”

Andrew has raised over £400 so far for Martin House Hospice, which spends £5 million a year to provide services for families.

“It is a life-line for so many families in the region,” Andrew added.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus:

“It’s a place where children, young adults and their families can come to stay from time to time along their journey and find support, rest and practical help.

“I know first hand how vitally important it is to keep Martin House open.

“I have always thought it is nice to give something back to Martin House Hospice for all the lovely work they do.”

This will be the first of many races for Andrew who will be covering different distances across the country for Michael this year.

Anyone who would like to support Andrew’s cause can donate by visiting the Just Giving page.