A VOLUNTEER with a Penarth charity raised more than £1,000 running the London Marathon to help disadvantaged young people.

Patrick Downes, who volunteers with Challenge Wales which is based in the marina, has so far raised £1,400 running the famous race on Sunday, April 24.

The charity has a 72 foot round the world yacht on which they provide training to youngsters to improve their employment prospects.

Mr Downes who has volunteered with the charity for nearly a year, chose to run for Challenge Wales because he has seen the difference sail training can make to young people.

He crossed the finishing line in 4 hours 14 minutes and 35 seconds and the money raised will contribute to the Challenge Wales bursary fund which will enable more young people to develop their life skills.

Mr Downes said: "I’ve always seen completing the marathon as a major challenge and Challenge Wales is often seen as a similar challenge to young people when they first step aboard.

"When Challenge Wales gave me the opportunity to run, it was something I felt I couldn’t pass up, as I knew it would be making a difference to young people.

" It felt a great achievement to cross the finish line.

"The whole event was special, the weather was perfect and the atmosphere created by the crowd cheering everyone on will stay with me for a long time.

"There were so many people running for some worthy charities.

"I felt proud to be running for Challenge Wales as part of that. It’s not an experience I will ever forget."

Challenge Wales gets one guaranteed London Marathon place every five years.

Vicky Williams, Challenge Wales Trustee said: "It was fantastic that one of our own volunteers was able to run it for us and we are overwhelmed with the commitment Paddy has put into training for such an event and fundraising.

“The money raised will enable Challenge Wales to work with some of the most disadvantaged and vulnerable young people in the Vale and wider afield, giving them an opportunity to go sail training and learn skills such as teamwork, communication and developing self-confidence, that they wouldn’t have otherwise have had the opportunity to do.

“Without the support of fundraisers like Paddy, Challenge Wales wouldn’t have been able to work with some of the 2,000 young people it has seen jump aboard over the years. Every little really does help."

To sponsor Mr Downes, visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/patrick-downes_CHALLENGE_WALES.