Teen to run Metro network in memory of dad

Charles McManus is raising money for St Oswald's Hospice and the Brain Tumour Charity in memory of his Dad who died in 2017

A teenager is planning to run the route of a rail network in one day in memory of his father who died in 2017.

Charles McManus, 18, from North Shields will cover 125km (77 miles) and pass all the stations of the Tyne and Wear Metro.

Sunday's run starts at 03:00 BST at South Hylton station in Sunderland and ends at Monument station in the centre of Newcastle.

He is raising money for the Brain Tumour Charity and St Oswald's Hospice where his father, David McManus, received care.

Charles, who has completed several half and full marathons, said: "Although the challenge sounds daunting, I am confident I can do it."

Charles has already completed several half marathons and marathons

"I have been training to improve my cardio fitness but also doing leg work at the gym and cycling to improve my leg strength," he said.

"When Dad was at the hospice, I'd get a hot chocolate from the machine there and we'd just chat about school, football, anything really.

"I just wanted to do something to help others who are in a similar position to my family, when dad was unwell.

"My dad used to push himself with his fitness and I know he would be proud of me too."

He will be supported by his uncle Andrew McManus who will cycle the route alongside his nephew.

"Charles is so modest, but we are very proud of him and we all know he can do it," he said.

"He wants to try and repay the amazing support Dave was given by the hospice by doing something both his mam Claire and dad loved, which is running."