A DETERMINED dad is all geared up for the gruelling challenge of running 14 half-marathon and marathon events in just 14 weeks to pull the pounds in for two good causes.

Father-of-two Nick Kirby is set take part in nine half-marathons and five marathons between now and May 4 to raise money for Children with Cancer UK and the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

The 48-year-old will be running nine half-marathons between February 1 and March 29, and five marathons in London, Milton Keynes, Brighton, Northampton and Manchester between April 5 and May 4.

Nick will start off his 14-week marathon challenge in Watford on Sunday.

The managing director of Hanging Gardens, in Sherfield-on-Loddon, decided on the two charities after seeing the children of close friends suffering with Cystic Fibrosis.

The genetic condition causes the lungs and digestive system of sufferers to become clogged up with thick mucus and can cause symptoms such as a persistent cough and recurring chest and lung infections.

Currently, there is no cure for Cystic Fibrosis. Nick’s son Matt also lost his best friend to cancer seven years ago.

Nick, from Hartley Wintney, told The Gazette: “I think they are very worthwhile causes. I would rather raise money for children’s charities. Originally, my fundraising target was a few thousand but I raised it to £5,000, and I am at £3,600 at the moment.

“I have done a lot of distance running over the years. I run every day so I have been upping the distance. It is not bad once you get into it.”

Twenty five per cent of the money will go to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and the rest will be donated to Children with Cancer UK.

To donate, visit virginmoneygiving.com/nickkirby.