A HAWORTH resident competing in the London Marathon this month for the first time has overcome a knee problem in the build-up to the event.

Professional gardener Steve Thorpe will compete in the London Marathon next week. (April 26)

"I was having a bit of bother with my knee at first, but that's sorted now," he said.

"I was getting a bit worried, thinking I wouldn't be able to train because I couldn't run on it.

"But my physio Ian Blackburn has been marvellous – he was able to deal with it.

"I'm up to £1,200 worth of sponsorship, but I have a £1,750 target so I'm still looking for support.

"The training is going well and I feel a lot more confident and ready for the challenge. I can run for more than 15 miles, but I don't want to overdo it.

"I'm not going to put myself under too much pressure."

Mr Thorpe, who lives in Prince Street, is taking part in the marathon to raise money for Manorlands Hospice.

People can support him via a sponsorship form available in the reception at Haworth Primary School, or they can visit virginmoneygiving.com/stevethegardener to offer money online.