A Bromsgrove-based area manager is taking part in his first ever-sporting event by signing up for the Great Birmingham Run on 18th October, following a five stone weight loss. Andy Wilson, 42, weighed 18 stone when he decided to change to a healthier lifestyle and get fit. He joined a gym three years ago, changed to a healthier diet, and gradually started to lose weight. 

Andy explained: “To be honest I was worried the weight would start creeping back on and I wanted a challenge to keep me focused. I’m not really a runner so this is very much a new test of endurance for me. “He is fundraising for Birmingham’s Children’s Hospital after his seven-year-old daughter was treated there was a minor ailment last year. Andy added: “It’s a cause close to my heart. The nurses there are absolutely lovely and they do such a good job – I can’t think of a better institution I would want to raise funds for.”
 
He is training regularly outdoors and in the gym, and is tackling two short runs and one long session a week. He has not set a particular target but hopes to raise as much as he can.