A runner from Westonzoyland will be taking on the London Marathon this Sunday to raise money for Blind Veterans UK.

Antonio de la Mata Chico decided to run the 26.2 miles through the nation’s capital to raise awareness and vital funds for vision impaired ex-Service men and women.

The 23-year-old who grew up in Spain said he feels strongly about fundraising for the charity.

While growing up all of Antonio’s male family members served in the Spanish Armed Forces as National Service was only abolished in 2001.

He said: “I work as a Graduate Engineer at AgustaWestland and when the AgustaWestland Apprentice and Student Association (AWASA) approached me to take on this amazing challenge for Blind Veterans UK, I didn’t have to think twice about it.

“It wasn’t until they pointed out Blind Veterans UK that I realised vision impaired ex-Service men and women can receive vital support.

I want to make more people aware of the charity as there are still a lot of people that aren’t aware of what Blind Veterans UK does.”

This will be the first marathon Antonio will be participating in and finishing will be a great achievement for him.

Antonio says: “I have done some amazing things in my life but I’ve never had the chance to give something back in this way.

“It was a long-term commitment to both train and raise money for some of the most vulnerable people in society.”

And after all the hard work Antonio is looking forward to this Sunday.

He said: “With less than a week to go, having completed all the hard work, I’m extremely excited for what an amazing day it will be.”

To support Antonio as he tackles the London Marathon for Blind Veterans UK, please visit www.justgiving.com/antonio-de-la-mata or for more information about Blind Veterans UK visit www.blindveterans.org.uk.