It was a high-spirited team running in support of brave teenager Chad Martindale at the St Albans Half Marathon.

The 14 year old, who lives in Sandridge and attends Sandringham School, was diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2013.

On Sunday, about 50 people took part in the marathon, clad in “Team Chad” t-shirts to raise money for his trust fund.

Chad is looking forward to having one-to-one personal training sessions as part of his ongoing rehabilitation, which will be paid for by the fund – it is hoped these will help improve his balance.

The fund also helps pay for the teenager’s tutoring, as he is only able to attend school for about nine hours a week.

• Also taking part in the event was Nick Kirby, 48, who is helping to beat cystic fibrosis by embarking on the challenge of completing 25 marathons in one calendar year. One of Nick’s close friends has a 15-year-old son who has been poorly with the genetic condition. Alex Dearman, a Harpenden-based communications volunteer for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust, said: “Nick is showing great determination in taking on these gruelling marathons.”