A FORMER ITV star from Appleton has raised more than £825 for a charity close to his heart after completing a gruelling half marathon.

Dan Hutchinson, 27, stepped up to endure the Virgin Sport Hackney Half Marathon on April 30 in aid of Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA) after sadly losing his grandmother, Dorothy, to the illness in 2014.

It is the second time the former Bridgewater High School pupil has completed the the 13.1 half marathon feat.

In 2015 he completed the Vitality North London Half Marathon in 1h 42m.

But he beat his time in last month's event.

He crossed the line in in 1h 40m 39s after the roar of the crowd and support from those closest to him spurred him on.

Former Appleton resident Dan, who now lives in London, shot to fame in 2013 after winning ITV2 reality show Girlfriends.

He has raised more than £825 for the charity so far following his exploits in the capital.

Dan thanked family and friends for their donations and paid tribute to his grandmother.

He said: "My family lost a wonderful mother, grandmother and incredible woman.

"Thanks to all for the kind donations so far – I'm extremely grateful and she would be too.

"The MNDA is the only national charity in England, Wales and Northern Ireland dedicated to improving care and support for people affected by motor neurone disease."

He also admitted his body was pushed to its limits during the run.

"My calves hate me," he added.

Motor neurone disease is a progressive disease, which attacks the motor neurones, or nerves, in the brain and spinal cord.

MNDA has more than 7,000 active volunteers in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

For further information about the charity visit mndassociation.org.