A NEWPORT worker will be carrying more than just his sponsor's expectations when he runs the Newport Half Marathon.

Martin Wade is running the race in aid of Velindre Cancer Centre while carrying a 30lb pack on his back.

The 43-year-old runner said he has competed in many half-marathons, but wanted to add "something extra" to the challenge when he runs the 13.1 mile race.

Mr Wade, who is the website editor for the South Wales Argus, will run the half-marathon in memory of his friend Anthony Price, who was treated by staff at Velindre between 2011-12 when he was suffering from cancer of the oesophagus. He sadly died in August 2012.

"I chose to raise funds for Velindre Cancer Centre as a tribute to Anthony", Martin said "and in recognition of the fantastic work they do for the people of South Wales.

"I also know that the equipment they use doesn't come cheap and they need all the help they can get."

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, which will hopefully mean more cash for Velindre.”

When asked what he was going to put in his pack, he said he would probably fill it with 15 2lb bags of the runner's fuel, porridge. "That should make the weight nice and stable - and at the rate I get through it, I should finish them by the end of May."

Head of fundraising at Velindre, Andrew Morris, said “We are fortunate that we receive great support from many people wishing to give something back to Velindre in recognition of the fantastic support the staff here provide. Martin's efforts in memory of his friend Anthony are tremendous, and he faces a real challenge to complete the course with this extra burden. But with Anthony fresh in his mind we are sure that he will succeed.”

To donate, go to: www.justgiving.com/runningwithapack

  • The South Wales Argus will be at the start of the race and at the finishing line to hand out bottles of Brecon Carreg water and an energy bar, supplied by Halo Foods, to all runners.