Warwickshire Wildlife Trust's Karl to run the London Marathon

Karl Curtis of Warwickshire Wildlife Trust is running the 26-mile distance on April 24 to raise at least £3,600 for the trust’s education team to run sessions at Tile Hill children’s centre in Coventry. This sum would fund one year of sessions, providing an opportunity for children and families to learn about the wildlife in their area.

He said: “My aim is to ensure that as many children as possible have an opportunity to become a ‘wild child’ and I hope they will stay wild for the rest of their lives, as they are the future voice for our wildlife.

“The weeks of training have been long and hard, but when I step up to the start line, I hope my effort will make a real difference to the children and their families.

“I was fortunate to grow up in a place rich in nature, but many children don’t get that privilege today and I want to help provide those experiences for others.”

Victoria Dunne, senior education officer for Warwickshire Wildlife Trust, said: “It is so important that children have access to their local greenspace. This project would raise children’s confidence in being and playing outdoors and also their families.

“Time and time again we have seen children embrace these new outdoor experiences and become fully engaged with the activities we offer.”

Warwickshire Wildlife Trust looks after 65 nature reserves in Warwickshire, Coventry and Solihull and is supported by more than 23,000 members and 1,000 volunteers. The charity aims to promote a better natural environment for both the wildlife and the people across its region. To find out more, visit www.warwickshirewildlifetrust.org.uk

To sponsor Karl, visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/karlcurtis