Hereford vet Chris Darke is readying himself to run the London marathon for a first time - taking his lead from the guide dogs he treats.

Over the border, Brecon-based teacher William Austin is training for the London marathon too, his effort inspired by the national deaf-blind charity Sense.

Chris, from the Brookfield veterinary practice, in Hampton Park, Hereford, has wanted to raise money by running a marathon and he found his cause in the guide dogs that come to his surgery. He hopes to raise at least £2,000 for the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association.

"We treat a number of guide dogs at the practice and I live very close to the Royal National College for the Blind, so I've seen what a difference a guide dog can make and what freedom and independence they bring," said Chris.

Fitting training around work has been tough for on-call Chris, so he keeps his laps close to home in case of emergencies.

William, who teaches science in Oxford, was moved toward the marathon by the courage of his teenage cousin Felicity, who is deaf and blind.

"I've always wanted to run in the London Marathon. Felicity is going through a tough time at the moment. However, she's defied the diagnosis the doctors originally gave her and has motivated me to do all I can to raise money for other people who are also deaf and blind," she said.

l Anyone wanting to sponsor Chris can contact The Brookfield surgery on 01432 357222.

Sponsors for William can call the Sense marathon line on 020 7272 7858.