CYSTIC fibrosis sufferer Tom Woollam, from Williton, is taking on the challenge of his life - by running in the New York Marathon.

He has been training now for two months for the 26.3 mile run in November, when he hopes to raise well over £2,000 for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust.

Cystic fibrosis is the UK's most common life-threatening, inherited disease which attacks the lungs and digestive system.

Tom, aged 23, is a former pupil of West Somerset Community College and is on a full scholarship at Cardiff University studying for a PhD in sustainable waste management.

He said: "Running in the New York Marathon is something that I will only do once and I want to raise as much money as I can.

"The end goal is to help the Cystic Fibrosis Trust raise the £15 million needed to try and find a cure for CF."

Tom has already raised £500 in sponsorship and has been fitting his training schedule around his studies. He has also been boosting interest in his research programme on the website http://www.wasteresearch.co.uk">www.wasteresearch.co.uk.

Cystic Fibrosis Trust outdoor events manager Sue Crossley said: "The New York City Marathon is a really exciting and extremely challenging event to be part of.

"Not only will Tom get to run through some very famous streets, but also he gets to make a difference to a lot of people suffering from this cruel disease."

Anyone willing to sponsor Tom can contact him at 12 University Place, Splott, Cardiff CF24 2JU or his parents at Chestnut Lodge, Tower Hill, Williton.