A DINAS Powys runner will be carrying the weight of his sponsor's expectations and more when he runs the Cardiff Half Marathon this weekend.

RAF reservist, Martin Wade will be running the race in aid of the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund while carrying a 35lb pack on his back.

The 46-year-old runner has competed in many half-marathons, but said he wanted to add an extra challenge when he runs the 13.1 mile race.

Martin serves with 614 (County of Glamorgan) Squadron of the Royal Auxiliary Air Force, Wales' only RAF Reserves unit.

He and five other members of the squadron will be joining 22,000 runners on Sunday, the highest number ever to take part in the race.

Martin says that raising money for the RAFBF was a natural choice for the team. "They give all kinds of support for members of the RAF community - be they serving men and women, veterans or their families."

The charity provides welfare breaks for families and veterans, grants to help with getting about inside and outside the home, advice on benefits and care services and support for young people.

When asked why he decided to run with a pack he said he hoped the added difficulty would encourage people to give more. "I hope by doing something a little bit different, it'll make my fundraising stand-out a bit more, which will hopefully mean more cash for the RAFBF.”

When asked what he was going to put in his pack, Martin said he would fill it with bottles of water, adding: “As well as that water in my pack I’ll have a bottle of energy drink as well, so it’ll be just over 35lb – on the start line at least.”

To donate, go to: www.justgiving.com/614-Squadron