A Gerrards Cross man will put his best foot forward later this month for a sight loss charity at the 2019 Bath Half Marathon.

Nick Webber will be running to raise funds for the Macular Society at this year’s race, which will see around 15,000 runners take to the streets of Bath on March 17.

Nick, 20, is studying psychology at Bath Spa University and says he signed up for the event to thank the charity for supporting his oldest sister, Bethany, who has Stargardt disease – a genetic condition which causes a wasting of the macula.

Typical symptoms include blurriness, distorted vision and difficulty adapting from light to dark and dark to light. Bethany was diagnosed aged 20 while she was in her first term at university.

Nick said: “The way Bethany has dealt with her condition has been really inspirational. Unfortunately she’s had to give up driving, and finds a lot of everyday things that we take for granted difficult, but it hasn’t stopped her living her life.

“I was still quite young when she was diagnosed, but I’ve subsequently found out how supportive the Macular Society was and the difference that it made to her.

“When the idea for taking part in the Bath Half Marathon came up, I thought it would be a great way to raise some money for the Society, as well as helping me to stay fit and eat healthily.

“It’s the first time I’ve ever taken part in an event like this; I’ve played a lot of squash and football, but I’m not really a runner, so it’s going to be a real challenge.

“Bethany and the rest of the family are due to be there to cheer me on – I’ll definitely need their support.”

“I’m really looking forward to the event now.”

Macular disease is the biggest cause of blindness in the UK. Almost 1.5 million people are currently affected and many more are at risk, the charity says.

To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/nickwebber2019.