Teenager to tackle London Marathon

A FISHPONDS teenager will be one of the youngest competitors in this year's London Marathon when he runs just days after his 18th birthday.

Jude Brown is teaming up with his stepdad Nick Tuftnell, who is registered as severely visually impaired, to raise money for charity Fight for Sight.

Jude took up running as part of a fitness drive, which comes from losing his dad when he was eight.

Nigel Brown, who worked as an early years practitioner at Filton Avenue Nursery and Children's Centre, was 43 when he died of a heart attack.

Jude runs with Bristol & West Athletics Club, which is based in Whitehall, and plays Sunday league football for Ashley Down in the Bristol Combination league.

He is also studying a Level 3 BTEC extended diploma in sport, fitness and personal training at SGS College and hopes to continue studying sport at university.

The former Ashley Down Primary School and Fairfield High School pupil is considering a career as an occupational therapist.

Jude won a place in the public ballot for places at the marathon,