A PAINTER and decorator from Farnham needs the public’s support as he gets ready for his second London Marathon on April 23.

Father to one, Alex Whattingham, 45, is running in aid of UK Youth. With a history spanning over a century and a network reaching more than 830,500 young people, UK Youth is the largest national body for the youth sector.

Last year IT spent £4.3 million on direct delivery work to young people, piloting new approaches, investing in areas of high deprivation and low provision, supporting outdoor education and rolling out successful programmes nationwide.

Its vision is for a bright future for every young person, whatever their background or circumstance.

In this way, they will make a successful transition from childhood to adulthood with the capabilities they need to become happy, healthy, valued members of the community, fully equipped to access employment and achieve their aspirations.

“UK Youth do a fantastic job helping young people realise their potential and I am honoured to be able to run for such a charity once again,” said Alex.

“Please give anything that you can as it will all add up to help make a real difference. On a personal note, this is marathon number two for me and my aim is to complete in as close to four hours and 30 minutes as I can.”

To make a donation go to www.justgiving.com/AlexWhattingham, text WHAT72 followed by amount to 70070, or by post to 82 Greenfield Road, Farnham, Surrey, GU98TQ.