CHARITIES that save lives at sea will get a cash boost when a marathon runner pounds the streets of the capital this weekend.

Nick Vowles, of Keyingham, is taking part in the Flora London Marathon to raise money for Humber Rescue and Withernsea RNLI.

Mr Vowles said: "I have been training hard, running about 30 miles a week.

"During the weeks leading up to the race, I have completed a few 17-mile runs.

"The experts tell you to stop at that distance because that is when your body hits the wall and wants to quit.

"Hopefully, on the day, the adrenaline and the support of everyone around me will keep me going."

Mr Vowles, who is a keen sailor, has raised £1,900 for his charities, but is hoping to increase his total.

He said: "I have a boat myself and therefore realise the vital work the crews of the lifeboat carry out. It is a service that saves lives every day."

Mr Vowles will be joined by his wife Debbie, 36, who is running in aid of Help For Heroes, which supports soldiers and other servicemen and women.

She said: "My husband has supported the RNLI for many years, especially Withernsea's lifeboat station.

"Both of us appreciate the hard work and dedication of the volunteer crews."

The marathon takes place on Sunday, with 35,000 runners attempting to complete 26.2 miles across London.

Val Nixon, senior fundraising manager at the RLNI, said: "We would like to thank Nick and Debbie for their dedication and fortitude.

"As a charity that receives no government funding, we rely on vital contributions from people like them, without which we would not be able to continue saving lives at sea."

To sponsor the couple, visit WHA Vowles and Son in Market Place, Patrington.

Links

Nick Vowles

www.justgiving.com/rnliwithernsealifeboat

Debbie Vowles

www.justgiving.com/debbievowles