FATHERHOOD persuaded a Halesowen dad to embark on a healthy lifestyle – and raise money for ill children.

Scott Mitchell packed up smoking and regular drinking and started running last December and is now training hard for two half marathons.

The 29-year-old dad to one-year-old Poppy, has lost two-and- a- half stone in weight and is looking forward to taking part in the Great North Run in Newcastle in September and the Birmingham Half Marathan in October.

He is also planning to run in Halesowen’s 10k Black Country Run in September and has so far clocked up 270 miles in training.

The steel salesman, of Hambleton Road, said: “I’ve always struggled with my weight and took up running because it doesn’t cost anything, but I needed something to spur me on.

“Since becoming a dad I realise how lucky I am to have such a gorgeous little girl, so I decided to raise money for Make a Wish, which provides treats for sick children.”

Mr Mitchell, whose wife Jennifer has also taken up running, has so far raised £1,300 towards his £4,000 target for the charity.

Anyone wishing to sponsor him can do so at www.justgiving.com/scott-mitchell8, or text the code MITC85 and the amount to 70070.