A ‘marathon man’ pensioner who has raised tens of thousands of pounds for charity is getting set to take on his 15th race.

In just a few days time retired grocer Harry Newton, 77, will be tackling London’s 26 mile event to raise funds for the East Cheshire Hospice.

The Macclesfield Harriers member, of Meg Lane, Broken Cross, started taking part in marathons at the tender age of 57, and says he has no intention of hanging up his running shoes just yet.

He has already raised around £30,000 for charities through racing, and this year is aiming to smash his £1,000 target for the upcoming event.

Harry, who has a daughter and two sons, nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, said: “I took up running quite late. My first marathon was London’s in 1995, and then after that I did New York’s a year later.

“One of the highlights so far has been setting my personal best in London when I was 70. I ran the race in three hours, 52 minutes and 30 seconds, which I was very happy with.”

“That time meant that I came sixth in my age group out of 106 other competitors. Unfortunately just a few weeks later I found a lump in my neck and was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma.”

Harry was forced to take a year out of the sport while his cancer was treated. But after going into remission he started to race again.

Harry, who also used to work as a postmaster at Royal Mail’s Bollinbrook office, said: “My lovely wife of 56 years Phyllis thinks I am a bit daft but she is very supportive. She comes with me to all my races.

“And I think my family are impressed with it all. I also have great support from my club Macclesfield Harriers, it is a great club and so supportive to runners coming through.

“The other members see me as a bit of an inspiration, as an old timer who can pass on a bit of experience. I am not sure I would agree though.”

Harry has already raised £800 for this year’s race through donations by friends and family.

He said: “They have been so supportive, and hopefully I can get well past my £1,000 target now. I am also aiming to finish within four and a half hours, which is about an hour faster than the the ‘good’ time recommended for my age.”

To donate to Harry’s fund, go to www.justgiving.com/harry-newton2 .