A MARTIAL arts expert is swapping his black belt for running shoes. . .

For Kung Fu king Jim Taylor, pictured right, is pounding the streets in preparation for next month's Manchester marathon to raise cash for Blackburn Children's Society.

And while the Darwen Kung Fu club instructor and venture scout leader is a self confessed fitness fanatic - he admits that running a marathon is one of his biggest challenges yet.

Jim, 47, a residential social worker at one of the society's residential units, said: "I am used to running much shorter distances and it will be a great achievement to finish and a bonus if a good amount is raised for the society."

Jim, from Rudyard Drive in Darwen, will be joined by Accrington police sergeant Ian Hanson - also attempting his first marathon.

Blackburn Children's Society runs four residential units from its headquarters in Whalley Road, Wilpshire and has been caring for the needs of children and young people since 1886 when it was formed as Blackburn Orphanage.

Anyone wishing to sponsor Jim or Ian can do so by contacting the society's administration office on 248061.

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