A 65-year-old grandfather is training intensively as he aims to run the London Marathon for charity.

Vince Horsman, from Cressing Road in Braintree, decided to run for Pancreatic Cancer UK, a charity close to his heart.

His mother-in-law passed away from the disease several years before he met his wife in 1993, meaning he never got to meet her.

He said he is determined to live his dream taking part in the marathon, and raise money for a good cause at the same time.

He said: “I used to go to London and watch the marathon and it was amazing, i absolutely loved it.

“Although I’m not a runner I love the romantic idea of running London’s streets.

“I wanted to raise money at the same time as it will drag me on knowing money is being raised for somebody.”

The retired grandfather-of-three enjoys poetry and photography in his spare time, although training is taking up a lot of his day.

He said: “I’m 66 this month so training is uncomfortable but I’m reaching all my objectives.

“My family don’t think of me as old and my four children don’t accept I’m getting older.

“They are all incredibly supportive. In 1990 I did the coast to coast walk across England which was 184 miles, which I found relatively easy, but that was a while ago.

“I know my time won’t be that great but I know I will finish it.

“I’m slightly apprehensive with my knees but I’m confident and very excited about the emotion of the event and everyone spurring me on.”

Mr Horsman will run the marathon in April, to donate to his charity page visit www.justgiving.com/vince-horsman.