A park runner from Mortlake became one of the first members of a new running team after signing up for the London marathon.

Alzheimer's Research UK and Parkrun UK joined forces earlier this month to help raise funds for vital research and are calling on people to join the team.

Kevin James, 55, was one of the first people to join and will run the 26.2 miles through central London on April 26 in memory of his mother Mary, who died with Alzheimer's disease in 2002.

He said: "My mother, a once proud and intelligent woman, was unable to comprehend what was happening to her and in the later stages of her illness was unable to recognise her once-loved family members.

"It’s an honour to have been chosen to run for Alzheimer’s Research UK as part of #TeamARUKparkrun - it’s a charity and a cause close to my heart - and my mother will be in my thoughts on the day."

To sponsor Mr James, visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/KevinJames4.

For more information about the charity and how to join the team, visit alzheimersresearchuk.org/parkrun.