A BRAVE runner with a potentially life-threatening condition has raised a four-figure sum for charity after completing the Great Manchester Run last month.

Mark Edwards, of Llanegryn, suffers from phenylketonuria (PKU), a rare genetic condition that is congenital.

The condition means the body is unable to break down a substance called phenylalanine, which builds up in the blood and brain.

High levels of the substance can damage the brain and patients can develop severe learning difficulties if the condition is left unchecked.

Only one in 10,000 people in the UK are diagnosed with PKU, and maintaining the necessary low-protein diet and training for a big race at the same time can be a challenge.

Speaking of his 10km run, which Mark completed in just over an hour, the proud athlete said: “It was a little starstruck before the race, I suddenly realised that I was soon to be running with stars from Coronation Street, Emmerdale and even The Bill.

“I remember thinking to myself that as long as its not the real bill running after me I’ll be ok!"

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