A FIREMAN will swap fighting fires for a pair of trainers and a running vest when he pounds the streets for charity in this year's London Marathon.

Dad-of-two Simon Chadwick will compete in the world-famous marathon on April 18 along with thousands of other runners, in aid of children's charity MACS.

The 34-year-old from Lowton, has been training every morning at 5.30am before he begins his day job as a fireman at Leigh fire station.

Simon has competed in many fundraising events for charity, including running up Scottish mountain Ben Nevis in full fire breathing apparatus. But this will be Simon's first ever marathon .

Despite this, Simon is confident he can get round the gruelling 26.2 mile course and raise over £1,000 in sponsorship money for his chosen charity.

He told the Journal: "I have taken part in loads of fundraising events but this will be my first run. I love raising money for charity and MACS is certainly a worthwhile charity to run for.

"My workmates at Leigh fire station think I'm crazy for doing the run, but I have shed over two-and-a-half stone since I began training. Everyone at the fire station and throughout the Greater Manchester Fire Service have been really supportive. Hopefully I can raise as much cash as possible."

Simon is appealing to local firms to advertise on his running shirt to help raise even more money for charity.

Interested firms should contact Simon on 07968 202999.