A HOSPITAL director will take part in Warrington’s English Half Marathon to raise money for a charity that supports orphans in Thailand.

Andy Eadsforth, who runs Stretton’s Spire Cheshire Hospital, will attempt to cover the 13-mile distance for Sarnelli House, which is made up of six orphanages in the northern Nong Khai province.

The 32-year-old has been to Asia five times in as many years to help look after the 180 children there, of whom roughly 150 have either HIV or Aids or have been orphaned by Aids.

He said: “The children receive the medication they need there as well as food, clothing, shelter and, above all, love and attention from the house mums.

“There is a huge stigma attached to HIV and Aids in the rural north of Thailand “Many of these children have been abandoned and left for dead by family, friends and villagers who are afraid of the disease.”

Andy also sponsors four youngsters, sending money each month to pay for their education and any medicine they need.

He added: “I have never run a half marathon before but I aim to do it in one hour and 45 minutes.

“I have had a knee problem for several years but with advice from the physios here and some new trainers I am now able to run almost pain free.”

Spire is sponsoring this year’s event, which takes place on September 18.

To enter visit english-half.co.uk.