A 72-YEAR-old with a metal hip is running the London Marathon to raise funds for Highbridge-based Secret World Wildlife Rescue.

Work took preference for Goff Welchman, whose parents came from Taunton, until 2013, when he and his wife Cathie took up running to get fit and lose weight.

They originally ran with Taunton Running Forever Running Club, although they later joined Tiverton Harriers.

They completed 10k and 5k races but Goff wrecked the head of his femur and need a full hip replacement after falling while playing tennis in 2015.

He said: "A few weeks later, I started running very carefully again, and in 2016 ran my first half marathon, since when I’ve participated in another 18, plus numerous other races at various shorter distances.

"However, before I get past my sell-by date, I would like to run one marathon, and of course, that has to be the iconic one, in London.

" Having failed seven times, to win a place in the public ballot, I was delighted to learn that Secret World Wildlife Rescue Centre, a charity I regularly support, needed a runner to enter the London Marathon for them.

"The training is going well and I look forward to the big day, by when I hope that I’ll have raised a lot of money for Secret World."

David Plant, fundraising manager for the charity, said: "We’re so pleased that Goff got in touch when he did and delighted to be helping him fulfil his dream while raising money for wildlife.

"He’s so full of energy and enthusiasm and has really taken to the challenge, speaking to our celebrity patrons, and even doing a talk at our recent open weekend.

"Everyone who hears his story is very proud of him and it’s been a pleasure watching his training updates.

"Please show your support for Goff if you can. He’s raised £1,000 already and as well as giving him more motivation, your donations will help give sick, injured, and orphaned wild animals a second chance at life."

If you’d like to support Goff’s marathon attempt, here’s his fundraising page: https://tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/goff-welchman-836f9

The London Marathon is the largest mass participation marathon event in the UK, and runners have raised more than £1billion since the race started in 1981.