A DAD from Kidderminster is undertaking a number of challenging runs in support of his daughter who has type 1 diabetes.

David Pountney, aged 39, from Sutton Road, has been busy preparing for a number of marathons and events to raise funds for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).

David's eight-year-old daughter Ellie was diagnosed with diabetes just after Christmas in 2017, after developing a severe headache.

The diagnosis was made after Ellie's sister Charlotte died at birth four years ago.

Ellie now has to inject herself four times a day and have numerous finger pricks to keep her blood sugars under control.

David said: "This obviously came as a huge shock to us and has meant that our life has once again dramatically changed.

"Although Ellie has dealt with it fantastically it is a lot to cope with so soon after we lost her sister Charlotte."

So far this year, David has completed the Gloucester Half Marathon, the Olympic Park Half Marathon, and the Gloucester 20 Mile Race in support of his daughter.

The intrepid runner will be taking on events including the Manchester Marathon, the Worcester Marathon, the Three Peaks Challenge, the Blackpool Run the Lights 10K, the Equinox 24 Hour Race and the Birmingham Half Marathon.

David added: "I am prone to the odd challenge and I am looking forward to them.

"Ellie has enjoyed coming to watch me at the events.

"JDRF are committed to eradicating type 1 diabetes and its effects for everyone in the UK with type 1, and those at risk of developing it.

"They fund world class research and ensure it moves forward as fast as possible.

"We have received invaluable support from JDRF and the diabetes community over the past year as we attempt to make sense of this condition.

"It is my hope that the continued research will eventually find a cure so that my daughter doesn't have to grow up with this horrible condition."

David has currently raised £490 on his Just Giving page, and is hoping to reach his target of £1,000.

People can donate to David's JustGiving page via justgiving.com/fundraising/jdrf2019?utm_id=121.