A YOUNG man from Bromsgrove is set to run a marathon in China to raise money for the Alzheimer's Society.

Tomas Badger, aged 24, was motivated to take part in the Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon 2015, as his Grandma suffers from dementia.

The Aston Fields resident is currently on a year-long placement in Foshan, China, teaching English at Nanhai Experimental High School, after completing a TEFL course.

Tomas said: “As I’m unable to help my mother whilst I’m away, I believe that fundraising for Alzheimer’s Society will help make a difference and in some way I'm doing my bit.

“After my Grandad’s death in April 2012, it was noticeable that my Grandma was becoming more forgetful and confused.

“A year later and it was evident that she needed to be placed in a safer environment as simple everyday life was becoming difficult.

“She now resides in an assisted living care home that specialises in help for residents with dementia.

“This hasn’t helped her mental health from getting worse, but it’s good to know she is getting the care she needs and can remain as independent as possible.

“She has trouble with simple things like dates and appointments, easily forgets names and gets very confused, paranoid, and has mood swings.

“Her life has changed forever."

In preparation for the run, held on Sunday, January 25, Tomas participated in the Guangzhou Half Marathon on November 23 and is also taking part in a series of training exercises.

He said: “Fortunately it’s not too cold or wet which makes training a little easier.

“I’ve always wanted to take part in a marathon and being in China allows me the time to train for one.

“Exercise has also been fairly cathartic, this has been important when feeling home sick or frustrated with work.

“Hong Kong is known for its hills so it's definitely going to be a challenging run which is exciting.

“I’ve done a couple of half marathons in England, but I’ve never done a full marathon.

I’m very excited but equally just as nervous. This is why I’d like support from home.

“It’s been quite difficult and I’ve has some issues with my knees, but I’ve stayed motivated which has been essential.”

Tomas graduated from University of Leeds in 2013.

He completed a two-week induction course in Beijing in August alongside a TEFL course before heading south to start at the high school in September. He teaches classes of sixty 16-year-old students.

So far, Tomas has raised £75, but has a target of £250. To donate visit justgiving.com/tombadger.