A REDDITCH pensioner who only took up sport a few months ago will soon be participating in the Great North Run - a gruelling 13-mile challenge.

Eric Glendenning, 75, who lives at Hanover Court, Headless Cross, will be taking part in the half marathon on Sunday, September 26, to raise money for the Primrose Hospice's new palliative care unit based at Bromsgrove's Princess of Wales Hospital.

Mr Glendenning's son-in-law has taken part in the race several times and last year, his granddaughters, aged four and seven, took part in the three-mile junior run with their mum.

He said: "I thought it would be such a nice idea if this year, three generations of our family could compete so I have been training hard.

"When I saw the brochure about the Primrose in my doctor's surgery I decided I'd take part as I've supported the charity over some years.

"I did talk to my doctor about me taking part and he discussed what the possible risks were because of my age. But if you didn't do anything in life which involved a risk you wouldn't do anything at all - you wouldn't even get out of bed in the morning."

Primrose fundraiser Lorraine Hart said: "We're delighted Eric has decided to take part. It's a tough challenge and he's been training hard to reach his goal. We're very grateful."

Anyone who would like to sponsor Mr Glendenning can call him on 404630 or the Primrose Hospice on 875444.