TWO runners are trying to keep up with each other by e-mail in a transatlantic training programme.

David McBride (right of picture), of Preston New Road, Samlesbury, is preparing for the London marathon with his friend Robert Forrest (left), of Georgia, USA.

Robert, who moved to America from Blackburn ten years ago, still visits the area on business and decided to join David for the 26-mile race in April. They met up for a 15-mile run this week. David, 50, said: "We keep in touch every week by e-mail and check our progress." David, who works for Causeway Carpets, has organised charity fun runs for good causes, but his longest previous run of ten miles was ten years ago. He has always wanted to run a marathon and is raising cash for charity Ovacome, a support group for women who have had cancer of the ovaries.

He said: "I can feel myself getting fitter but it is very tiring. There are two major things keeping me going. One is thinking about crossing the finish line and the other is presenting the cheque to the charity."

Anyone who would like to sponsor David can contact him on 01772 877478.

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