A KEEN runner who developed asthma at the age of 49 is running the London Marathon next week.

Martyn Parry is running for Asthma UK after being diagnosed with the condition last summer.

Martyn, of Dursley, said he was shocked to find out he had developed asthma after being a member of Dursley Athletics Club for 27 years and keeping fit refereering for Gloucestershire County FA.

The father-of-two says the training has been tough, especially after suffering several bouts of illness since Christmas, but that he is still confident he will finish within four hours having completed 13 marathons in his life.

"I was very shocked to find out I had asthma, especially since I have been very fit all my life," said Martyn, 49.

"I have done marathons before, but this is the first one in four years and it has been tougher than before."

Martyn started experiencing a tight chest while out running last summer and had a scare when he couldn’t breath well when out one day. His wife insisted he go to the doctor and he was quickly diagnosed with the condition.

You can develop asthma at any stage in your life and Britain has around 5.2 million sufferers.

Martyn will be running the marathon this Sunday, to support him fill in a sponsorship form at the following locations: Berkeley Arms pub, in Cam,Sandpits clinic, Co-op, Rosebery Road or the Traditional Bakery, Parsonage Street. Alternatively email Martyn on parry345@btinternet.com.