AFTER health reasons forced him to pull out of this year’s London marathon, one Swindon man is determined to still raise money for charity.

Lee Bladen, who is a project interface manager at Great Western Railway, was hoping to run the 26.2 mile distance for Phabkids, who provide residential experiences for children and adults with a range of disabilities.

But instead, the 35-year-old from Oakhurst had to change his plans on his doctors’ advice.

He said: “I managed to get a place in the marathon but because of medical reasons, I won’t be able to take part but along with my wife Sarah, we will do something and still go ahead with the charity ball.”

Last year’s charity dinner and dance managed to raise nearly £2,000 and this year, Lee hopes to raise a similar amount when the 007-themed event takes place at the Village Resort on March 11.

He added: “The idea of raising money for Phabkids came about when I ran the marathon for them last year.”

“It was then linked to how my niece lives in Reading and runs a dance school for children with special educational needs and disabilities and I thought how nice it would be to try and help the charity which is quite small.

“Raising money and putting on these experiences can make such a difference to the children and adults.”

Tickets cost £35 which includes a three course meal and disco.

Email l.bladen@hotmail.co.uk or visit the The 2nd Phabkids Charity Dinner And Dance on Facebook.