A new long-distance runner is hoping to smash through 10k in under an hour for charity.

Matthew Waylett is running competitively for the first time in the Vitality London 10,000 event on May 28, after only picking up the sport 18 months ago.

He is raising money for Sea Cadets, a childhood skills development charity, and the Marine Society, which support seafarers.

The 39-year-old from St Albans said: “I’ve been involved with Sea Cadets since the age of 11 and it has played a huge part in moulding who I am today, giving me life skills and confidence.

“Sea Cadets continues to deliver that and so much more for young people up and down the country today.

“This will in fact be my first ever competitive run and so raising money for Sea Cadets will give me that extra incentive to get all the way around.”

To sponsor Matthew, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/matthew-waylett