ONE determined runner has stepped up his training regime as he prepares to take on a half marathon for charity.

Edgware resident Andrew Cohen, is calling on couch-bound Londoners to join him as he takes on the Royal Parks Half Marathon to raise money for charity this October.

The 13.1-mile route will cover four of central London’s Royal Parks, including St James’s Park, Green Park, Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens.

The route will then weave its way past Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament and the Royal Albert Hall, before runners cross the finish line in Knightsbridge.

The 28-year-old decided to sign up to help raise money for a vital cash boost for charity Norwood.

Based in Stanmore, the charity supports almost 7,000 children, families and adults with learning disabilities across London and the South East.

He said: “I’ve known about Norwood all my life, they’re a truly wonderful organisation, doing great things locally.

“They strive to ensure that everyone can live the life they choose, irrespective of their ability.

“Just last week I was in a shop in Hendon and I told the shopkeeper I was running a half marathon for Norwood.

“It turned out that his son benefits from Norwood’s services, which really shows the difference this charity makes in our community.”

With just over two months to go, Mr Cohen is stepping up his training regime and will be running three times a week until the big day – with the aim of completing the race in less than one hour and 45 minutes.

His fundraising efforts, however, have got off to a sprinting starts and he has already increased his fundraising target from £500 to £1,500.

With more than £1,100 already raised, he’s hoping to have a last push to bring him up to his target.

He added: “I’ve raised much more than I expected. Now I want to get it well past four figures.

“Any donation will be extremely appreciated, no matter how big or small.”

Adele Breslauer, director of fundraising and marketing at Norwood, said: “Andrew has raised a fantastic amount in just a few months, raising his target twice.

“The money he raises will do a tremendous amount of good.”

The race will take place on Sunday, October 11. To register, go to www.norwood.org.uk/challenges.

To sponsor him, visit http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/AndrewCohen2