Wood you believe it? Tree surgeon Joseph Lovelock is taking part in this year’s London Marathon.

The 29-year-old from Sittingbourne will run the 26.2-mile route in aid of The Wish Appeal, which grants wishes for residents in the care of the Abbeyfield Kent Society.

He said: “I have given up alcohol. My training is so hard and relentless I can’t afford to have an off day.

“I have tried to cut out junk food; things like the occasional cheeky take-away.

“Monday is my only rest day!

“I am obviously getting a lot of running miles under my belt.

“I am also cycling to keep the strength in my legs, but I have always done that type of training.

“And, of course, I can’t miss my normal gym sessions, but I’m just sticking to the upper body.”

To support Joseph, donate through his Just Giving page at www.justgiving.com/Joseph-Lovelock

You can also text ‘WISH05’ followed by the amount you want to donate to 70070 – eg, ‘WISH05 £10’.