A RUNNING novice aims to complete 1,000 miles of running events in 2016.

Bruce Morgan - who only took up the hobby for his first race four months ago - is raising money for Macmillan Cancer Care by taking on 10ks, half marathons, and marathons every month for a year.

It all kicked off in January with the Carlisle 10k, then February's run was the British Heart Foundation's Winter Warmer 10k, the next month Bruce took on his first half marathon, and this month he plans to do the Great Edinburgh Run.

But the 48-year-old, who runs Brownlies in Biggar, will soon be lacing up for his biggest challenge so far: the Edinburgh Marathon in May.

He said: "I've never been much of a runner, I just wanted a challenge. My legs have been surprisingly ok and although the races are a challenge, I'm coping well so far. So far so good!"

"When I go running around here it's quite hilly, so at the events it's actually a bit easier because it's flat and you get adrenaline from the atmosphere.

"Carlisle was quite tough just because there had been such heavy snow the night before so running in those conditions was quite difficult.

"The fact that I'm doing it for Macmillan really gives me a boost and spurs me on as well."

Only four months into the challenge, Bruce and Brownlies have already raised £480 of their £2,000 target. And every donation that's made, Brownlies match.

"If someone donates £50 we match it and donate £50. We're just waiting for when someone donates £1,000!" Bruce laughed.

Despite never being much of a runner, Bruce has taken the challenge in his stride and hopes to complete his first marathon in under four hours. He hasn't made any plans for his final race in December just yet - but hopes there will be a Santa Dash or something a bit different to end the year with a bang.

You can donate by popping into Brownlies on Biggar High Street or visit www.justgiving.com/Brownlies-Marathon-1000miles