A DINAS Powys runner will be carrying more than just the weight of expectation from his sponsors when he runs the Cardiff Half Marathon this weekend.

RAF reservist Martin Wade will be running the race in aid of the Royal British Legion while carrying a 35lb pack on his back.

The 48-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.

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

He will be joining more than 20,000 runners on Sunday, in one the biggest road races in the UK.

Mr Wade said that raising money for the RBL was a natural choice for him.

“They give all kinds of support to the Armed Forces community - be they serving men and women, veterans or their families,” he said.

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 RBL,” he added.

To weigh down his backpack, Mr Wade will be filling it with bottles of a water and an energy drink.

To donate, go to www.justgiving.com/cardiffhalf2018rbl