AN Aberystwyth couple laced up their trainers for the London Marathon to raise funds for the Royal National Institute of Blind People.

Rhydian Davies and Kellie Ward were inspired to join Team RNIB for the event as they have first-hand knowledge of the effects that sight loss can have on an individual and their family.

Members of Kellie’s family have Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy, a degenerative disease, which has affected both male and female members of her family. Only last Christmas, the family endured another blow when Kellie’s first cousin, in her twenties, lost her sight in a matter of weeks.

Kellie said: “We both love running and joining Team RNIB seemed like the perfect fit – whilst giving back to a charity close to our hearts.

“The atmosphere at these events is amazing. You really get a buzz from the crowds and it definitely keeps you going, even when you don’t think you can run any further.”

Rhydian added: “The services and support RNIB provides are vital to help families deal with how life changing losing your sight can be.

“There may be a time in the future where my partner and I will need support for one of our own children. I want to help fight the division that there is currently between the blind, partially sighted and sighted people and try make life easier for those affected by sight loss.”

To help Rhydian and Kellie reach their fundraising target of £2,000, donate at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/rhydian-davies6

See this week’s south papers for the full story, available in shops and as a digital edition tomorrow