NEW Eltham's Roy Halliday will take on take on the challenge of the Flora London Marathon on Sunday, April 14, to raise funds for Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).

Roy's sore feet and complete knowledge of his local running routes are badges of honour as a member of JDRF's 150-strong marathon team set to brave the gruelling 26.2-mile route.

The team's aim is to raise £230,000 to advance research to find a cure for diabetes.

Roy said: "My father was diagnosed with diabetes in his later years.

"It's great to have the opportunity to run in the marathon, and also to know that the money I raise will contribute to finding a cure for diabetes, which increasingly affects young children, and requires finger-prick blood tests and insulin injections several times a day, every day, for life."

JDRF is dedicated to finding a cure for diabetes and its com-plications. Diabetes affects one and a half million people in the UK and is increasing at an alarming rate, especially among young children.

Insulin is not a cure, but an imperfect treatment for diabetes, which does not protect against long term complications including blindness, kidney disease, heart disease, stroke, amputation and a shortened life expectancy.

Annwen Jones, chief executive of JDRF, said: "Juvenile, or type 1, diabetes strikes children suddenly, makes them insulin-dependent and carries the constant threat of devastating complications.

"We are immensely grateful to Roy for his efforts. Every mile run and every pound raised takes us one step closer to a cure for diabetes."

JDRF still has a few places available for those wishing to take part in the Flora London Marathon. Those interested should call Mark Henderson, JDRF's marathon co-ordinator on the number below.

For more information about Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and how you can help to find a cure, or to sponsor Roy Halliday, call 020 7436 3112 or visit the website at: www.jdrf.org.uk