A diabetic man from Ely is saying ‘thank you’ to a charity that has supported him since he was a teenager by lacing up his running shoes and taking part in this year’s London Marathon.

32-year-old Paul Sycamore is to join thousands of other runners in the capital for the race on April 24, and wants to raise money for Diabetes UK - a charity that has helped him fight his condition since he was diagnosed as a teenager.

He said: “I started running a few years ago with a group of friends – we were known as ‘Team Nancy’ in memory of my best friend’s mum, who died from cancer. We’ve run a few half marathons, including the Cambridge Half Marathon and raised more than £5,000.”

Paul’s father also suffers from Type 1 diabetes, and Paul says that running the marathon is his way in giving something back for all the help he’s received.

“My dad and I have had a lot of advice, support and care over the years,” he said. “I wanted to give something back.”

His wife, Melissa, is backing his marathon effort all the way.

She said: “It’s a massive challenge, but he’s been really into his training. I think he’s surprised everyone with how much he’s enjoyed it.”

To sponsor Paul, visit http://www.justgiving.com/owner-email/pleasesponsor/PAUL-SYCAMORE4, and for more information on Diabetes UK, visit www.diabetes.org.uk.