Footballer and former Swindon Supermarine captain running in London Marathon

Chris Taylor currently plays for Highworth Town FC and is swapping the pitch for the track to support Children with Cancer UK.

He said: “One of my friend’s sons, Sebby Murtough, died of cancer a few years ago so I’m running in his memory.

"Watching the heartbreak and battle Sebby, Steve and family went through has made me so determined to smash this personal challenge, raise awareness and hit my target of £2,000.

"I have three healthy kids and not a day goes by where I don't think about how lucky I am to have them

“I was lucky to get selected to run for the charity., this is a massive challenge.

“Training was hard for the first three weeks, I thought I was mad to do this, but I’m really enjoying it now,

“It’s completely different to playing football, on the pitch you run ad most 15 metres and it’s only 90 minutes so it’s short and sharp.

The 32-year-old played 300 games for Swindon Supermarine, so when its chairman Jez Webb heard about what he was up to, he offered to sponsor Chris’ shirt for the marathon.

Jez said: "Children's cancer always touches a nerve for me, I know people who have been affected by it.

“Chris rang me out of the blue last week and I was happy to sponsor him.

“He took us to the second round of the FA Cup and he’s the most successful captain that the club has had, it’s a pleasure to be able to help."

Chris added: “Everyone has been really supportive, family and close friends are going down to London to support me on the day,

“I’ve always been into running, I ran regularly as part of a diet plan but the furthest I’d run in one go before this was eight miles.

" I began training in January and am currently up to 17 miles, I haven't hit a wall yet, the adrenaline gets you through it and the last few miles have actually been the fastest."

“I feel really strong and fit and I can’t wait to take part, I’m excited.”

To donate, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/chris-taylor109