A KEEN football fan from Saffron Walden is swapping his boots for running shoes as he prepares to take part in the Sunday’s Virgin London Marathon 2011.

Trevor Bissett, of Jordan Close, used to play for Saffron Walden Town FC some years back and still returns to coach the club’s youngsters.

He has run the marathon twice before – in 2002when he clocked up 3hrs 45mins and in 2004 when he bettered that with 3hrs 26mins.

And he is hoping that experience will help him in the gruelling 26.2-mile course.

“It would be good to finish in a better time and I think having done it before I know how much training I need to do. Having said that it has been a while since I did anything quite as strenuous as this!” he said

“I enjoy playing and coaching football better than running but of course I am looking forward to it.”

Mr Bissett is up the challenge to raise cash for Homestart Uttlesford, a voluntary organisation offering support and practical help to families at home with a child under five years old.

“I got into the marathon through the ballot and wanted a local charity, rather than a national one. Through a friend of a friend I was told about Homestart Uttlesford and it was a logic choice,” he said.

“Homestart provides invaluable support to local families with young children, something that is not offered in many places.

“I am hoping to raise as much money as possible for them.”

The scheme, now in its 27th year, sees families supported by trained volunteers who visit regularly to offer emotional support and practical help.

It also runs two family groups where parents and children can meet for friendship, play and mutual support. The service is free and confidential.

To find out more about the charity, call 01799 520728 or visit the website at homestartuttlesford.co.uk

To sponsor Mr Bissett visit his web page at uk.virginmoneygiving.com/trevorbissett