SELF-employed computer consultant Ian Danby, of Worcester, has secured a place in the BUPA Great Birmingham Run.

The event takes place on Sunday 19 October.

Mr Danby is encouraging others to enter and join him by getting fit, having fun and raising vital funds for the NSPCC.

He said he was 50 on the outside and 16 on the inside and training for the run had been a great diversion from sitting at his desk all day.

The dad of two said: “The Great Birmingham Run is set to be a great event with a brilliant atmosphere. I decided to run for the NSPCC as it is terrible for any child to suffer but children suffering at such a young age can potentially damage their entire life. Raising money for a charity like the NSPCC means we can also raise awareness of these issues and help children before it’s too late.”

He added: “I’m looking forward to the contest, the atmosphere and the knowledge that I will be raising money for such a good cause and of course the finish line.”

The charity is urging runners, new and old, to get their running shoes on this summer and get in training to take part in the run around Birmingham City Centre. The 13.1 mile race will take runners through the city centre, passing iconic Birmingham landmarks such as the Edgbaston Cricket Ground, Cadbury World and the Bull Ring.

The flat, fast course means the half-marathon is an opportunity for novice runners or those trying to achieve a new personal best to take part.

NSPCC fundraising executive, Claire Arnott, said: “The Great Birmingham Run is the perfect opportunity to get fit and train over the summer for the event in October. Those taking part will be joining over 20,000 competitors from across the Midlands and the UK and the atmosphere from the cheering crowds is set to be electric.”

Runners without a place in the event can apply for one of the NSPCC places available for the BUPA Great Birmingham Run. In return, it asks for a registration fee of £10 and asks entrants to commit to raising a minimum sponsorship of £250.

It will then send a welcome pack and running vest and give its full support. On the day there will also be a post-race reception, with food and refreshments for NSPCC runners to enjoy.

Any runners, who have their own place in the Great Birmingham Run or would like to sign up for one of the NSPCC’s guaranteed places, should email the events team at running@nspcc.org.uk or visit nspcc.org.uk/running to find out more.

To support Mr Danby visit justgiving.com/Ian-Danby.