AN EAST Renfrewshire man will run the London Marathon in aid of a poverty charity which helps those in need gain access to welfare benefits.

Ali Wright, from Clarkston, is taking on the 26-mile route on Sunday, April 23 for Turn2us after learning of the lengths the organisation goes to support millions of people each year.

As well as identifying welfare entitlement opportunities, Turn2us offers direct grants to those facing financial difficulty.

The charity’s helpline received more than 80,000 calls last year and handed out £3 million in grants, some of which was funded through the Edinburgh Trust.

Concerned that many people are often forced to choose between heating their homes or eating a meal, user-interface developer Ali was keen to show his support.

Ali, who has raised almost £800 ahead of Sunday’s event, said: “I’ve been a keen runner for years and have taken part in several challenging marathons, including a couple of ultras.

“I decided to run for Turn2us because I’ve been touched by the many reports of poverty happening all around the UK and wanted to do my bit.

“I’m aware from personal experience that it is not easy to know what you are entitled to.

“Poverty can happen when you least expect it and you need access to good information fast, which is where Turn2us comes in.”

Thanking Ali for running the marathon in support of the charity, Turn2us fundraising officer Micky Forster said: “We are so grateful to Ali for running the marathon in support of the charity.

“He has put so much time and energy into training and fundraising and then running the marathon. The money that he raises will go far in helping us to fight poverty.”

To support Ali’s efforts, go to www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Ali-London-Run.