A BROTHER and sister from Ilkley will run the London Marathon this weekend for a cause close to their hearts.

Actor and personal trainer Tim Wellings needed weeks of intense hospital treatment as a toddler after contracting bacterial meningitis.

Though he survived, the 29 year did suffer some long-lasting effects which he lives with to this day.

This Sunday, April 23 he and his sister, Sophie Wilson, will run in the London Marathon to raise money for the Meningitis Research Foundation.

Tim said: "I had bacterial meningitis and septicaemia when I was six months old.

"I was lucky that mum recognised the symptoms and took me to hospital quickly, and I was in intensive care for six weeks but I pulled through.

"The meningitis did have some lifelong after effects, including some brain damage.

"Growing up I struggled at school but I eventually found my niche as an actor and a personal trainer and this has helped me believe in myself - I know that if I put my mind to it I can overcome any obstacle and my family have been

with me every step of the way.

"Sophie and I decided we would love to run the marathon together and help raise money for a charity we feel strongly connected to.

"We hope the money we raise will mean a few other people can be as lucky as I was."

Thirty one year old Sophie, who now works as a barrister in London, added: "My little brother Tim was an amazing kid and is now an amazing adult who has grown to become someone I am hugely proud of.

"This dreadful illness can have far-reaching consequences.

"Tim has had his share of difficulties following on from his recovery, but you might never know from meeting him.

"He has such a zest for life, is talented, kind and has always had a positive outlook.

"Now working as a personal trainer, he is training me for the marathon so we can make our contribution in defeating this disease."

The pair have already raised £8000 for the charity with Sophie, who recently got married, giving up wedding presents in return for marathon sponsorship instead.

They can be supported at virginmoneygiving.com/team/RunSophieRunTimmy .

*For information about meningitis and septicaemia call the Meningitis Research Foundation's Freefone helpline on 080 8800 3344 or visit meningitis.org.