RETIRED Monmouth-based dentist Mike Hargaden, 68, is running this year’s London Marathon to raise money for Monmouth Aid.

This will be Mike’s first full marathon, with training progressing steadily since starting with the Cardiff Half Marathon last October.

The tipping point was the encouragement and gauntlet given by Monmouth Aid founder-member Dr Dick McPherson who ran his first marathon at the age of 68.

Mike said: “Even rowing has had to take a back, or should I say bow, seat. We have been associated with Monmouth Aid for many years and if my effort results in some children having water on tap rather than spending many hours each week collecting it, it will be worthwhile.

“I have been very fortunate in life and I wish to give something back. Monmouth Aid tells the story of how our small town has supported some of the poorest villages in the world since 1985.”

Monmouth Aid has been providing ongoing support to communities in Ethiopia since 1985.

Partnering with vulnerable communities in Ethiopia, Monmouth Aid provides funding for development programmes including water projects, soil conservation, crop improvement, and primary school development.

For more information, and to sponsor Mike, visit the site:?www.justgiving.com/Mike-Monmouth-Aid

For more information on Monmouth Aid, including its history and current projects, visit www.monmouthaid.co.uk