After seeing two of his colleagues die from cancer Mike Dunning pledged to raise £1,000 for research into the disease.

Now the father of three is more than half-way through his year-long objective of raising funds for Bowel and Cancer Research by running more than 100 miles.

The Burnley 10k later this month will mark the start of his training for the grand finale which will see the 41-year old run the York marathon in October. So far he has completed four 10k races and three half marathons including the Great North Run. In his last race, the Leeds half marathon, Mike achieved a further personal best of 1 hour 48 mins and 29 seconds.

Mike, a wiring loom operator for Rawdon-based Airedale International, was spurred on to raise money for Bowel & Cancer Research after seeing two of his colleagues die from the disease.

To help keep himself on track, he joined a local running club. He also cycles his 34-mile daily commute to and from his Sowerby Bridge home to maintain his fitness levels - often completing the journey faster than a colleague travelling the same route by car.

To keep energy levels up during races, energy gels are a staple but Mike admits to having supplies of jelly beans for an added boost during half marathons. In the 16-week countdown to the York marathon he will run up to 22 miles each week and will start a high carbohydrate diet seven days before the race itself.

Mike, who has lost four stone, has already registered for the 2015 Leeds Half Marathon.

Despite his efforts fund-raising is proving difficult and he still needs another £900 to reach his target.

"It’s harder raising the money than it is doing the running but I’m very grateful to everyone for their support so far," he said.

To sponsor Mike, text MMAD69 with the amount you want to contribute to 70070 or visit www.justgiving.com/Michael-Dunning4. Visit www.bowelcancerresearch.org to find out more about bowel cancer.