A PORLOCK man who gave up sport 20 years ago and used to count a 50-yard sprint as exercise is in training for a challenge certain to set his heart racing.

Father-of-two Rob Smith has signed up to take part in the Bath Half Marathon next March.

And although the 13 and a bit-mile run might be a walk in the park for fitness fanatics, it is likely to be more of an uphill struggle for Rob.

But the 37-year-old handyman and gardener, who works at Broadlands retirement home in Minehead, is determined to cross the finishing line and boost the funds of his two chosen charities - Cancer Research UK and the Children's Hospice South West.

Rob's decision to set himself a goal not easy to achieve came after he realised how lucky he was.

"I've never done any fundraising for anything," he said.

"My father was diagnosed with bowel cancer last year, just after undergoing a heart by-pass operation.

"And a woman I work with has a daughter who is very ill.

"I just suddenly thought how fortunate I was that I had two healthy boys and that it was time I did something to help other people who aren't as lucky as me.

"Running a half marathon might not seem much to some people but for someone who hasn't run further than 50 yards in years, it's quite daunting.

"I used to play football but I haven't really done any sport since I left school."

Although the event is still more than six months away, Rob began training just over six weeks ago.

"I started off slowly but now I can run five or six miles comfortably and what's really surprising is that I'm really loving it."

Living on Porlock Hill, Rob is hoping that using the steep incline as a training ground will stand him in good stead for the half-marathon course, which is fairly flat.

And he is hoping that his efforts will raise between £1,000 and £1,500.

His brother Chris, who lives in Hertfordshire, will also be taking part in the event, raising funds for the Teenage Cancer Trust and the Royal British Legion.

Anyone wanting to sponsor Rob can do so at virginmoneygiving. com/RobSmith33.

Sponsorship forms are also available from Broadlands and Porlock Visitor Centre.

"This is a big thing for me - it's not like I run half marathons all the time," said Rob.

"But whether someone donates £1 or £10, I will be hugely grateful."

Photo: Ian Beech Images