A former homeless man is to hit the streets again – but this time he will be running a marathon to help disabled children.

Simon Hinds, 41 of Lethe Grove, Colchester, was homeless for a month after falling behind with his rent.

He ended up staying at Colchester Night Shelter and was helped by the Colchester charity, Open Door to find somewhere to live and sort out his life.

After finding his feet, Simon wanted to give something back to Open Door and worked there as a chef.

Now he aims to help disabled children and is running the London Marathon to raise money for Get Kids Going, a charity providing sports equipment for the youngsters.

Full story in today's Gazette