A MAN is running and cycling a combined 780 miles throughout November to raise money in honour of AFC Bournemouth star David Brooks.

After learning of David Brooks’ diagnoses of Hodgkin Lymphoma, Cherries fan James McCafferey, 35, decided he would run seven miles and cycle 19 miles every day through November.

James, a logistics manager, chose the numbers as the Welsh international wears number seven for Cherries and 19 for Wales.

And before James laced his boots for his first run, the 24-year-old winger had generously donated £200 to the challenge.

James said: “After the surprise of David Brooks’ diagnoses, I thought what could I possibly do and a light bulb moment came on.

“Monday was the start of the month and there’s quite a lot of backing for events with Movember.

“I was not expecting it, in the slightest, to take off and have the interest it has.”

James initially set the target of raising £780 but has since smashed that and surpassed £1,200.

After just a few hours of the fundraiser being live, the 35-year-old managed to raise £425.

He continued: “I woke up at 4am to find it at £425 and then I had a 12-hour day at work. By the time I could even lace my first shoe for the run it was at £1,025, I was just taken aback and astonished.

“With David Brooks, am overwhelmed he would back the challenge and I still am shocked at the reaction of the community.

“I know what I am putting myself through is nowhere near what he is experiencing, I was blown away he would go out his way to support it, it makes it all the better and put a bounce in my step.”

Speaking of David’s absence from the team, James said he “will be missed” but was impressed at how the team and fans had rallied around him.

He added: “Everyone has his back, sending him strength and love and encouragement to fight this battle.

“He has got the full backing of all Cherries all around the world, we cannot wait to see him put on a Bournemouth or a Wales shirt and step foot on the grass where he belongs.

“The challenge will be wet, it will be windy, but it will be worth it.”

To donate, visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/runridefordb7 and follow the progress on the hashtag #RunRideforDB7.