A BORDERS schoolboy is running 40 miles to raise money for a cancer charity.

William Arkwright, 11, who attends St Mary's School in Melrose, managed to complete the equivalent of a marathon (26.2 miles) in nine days.

Despite that distance being his original target, he is continuing to put his best foot forward and aims to clock 40 miles by July 12.

His mum Emily Arkwright, 40, said: "I think it's brilliant – it's really refreshing seeing him enjoy it.

"I think it gives him a sense of independence too."

So far, William has run more than 32 miles and has smashed his fundraising target of £150, raising £1,660 [figure correct at 3.30pm, July 3].

"It was all quite a shock when we went past the [fundraising] target," said photographer Mrs Arkwright.

"There's still so much in him. He keeps going. If he wants to do something he cracks on."

All the money raised will go to Cancer Research UK.

Mrs Arkwright says the charity represents a cause which "touches everyone".

To donate to William's fundraiser, you can visit this website.