A LOVING uncle will run the equivalent of 20 marathons in memory of his nephew Daniel Climance.

Neil Lucas, who lives in Covingham, will run an astonishing 535 miles in just 134 days in aid of the Doing it for Dan charity.

The charity was set up in honour of 11-year-old Daniel Climance who died in June last year when he collided with a road-sweeper while cycling with his father and older brother.

Inspired by the Bridlewood Primary pupil’s love of sport service manager Neil will pull on his running shoes to sprint to fundraising success.

“Daniel was such a loving and popular boy. Everyone loved him and he would always play with my kids when we went round to visit,” Neil, 40, said.

“Dan absolutely loved sport, he would be really proud of all of us and how we’ve come together for him. I knew I wanted to do something to raise awareness of the charity and this seemed the perfect way to do it.

“I will be thinking of Daniel all the time when I’m running, it motivates me to keep going. Seeing all the other runners and their journeys also inspires me.

“The 535 days represent the number of days from when Dan passed away to the day of the first charity ball in his honour at the DeVere Hotel on November 26,” said Neil.

Neil hadn’t run in six years before training began and it was a labour of love to ease into long distance running again. He started off with daily four-mile runs and since July 15 has clocked up more than 300 miles.

“My legs are constantly aching, I’ve had to completely change my diet and juggle things around work and family life but I’m really pleased with the progress I’ve made so far,” he said.

Neil is also supported by wife Bree, daughter Alice, three and son Sam, five, who was particularly close to Daniel.

He will round off his marathon mission by running half marathons every day in the final week of October and the 10k Monster Race, in Malmesbury on November 12.

“I’ve built it up slowly to and it has been tough but I’ve got there. I don’t feel too tired yet, we’ll see how I feel after the week of half marathons,” said Neil.

Doing It For Dan raises money to help children and young adults realise their sporting dreams. It aims to help with grants to individuals and organisations. It was launched by Dan’s parents Helen Lucas and Stuart Climance in February. To donate to Neil’s appeal visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/neil-lucas-doingitfordan