WHEN Barrie Evans lines up for the London Marathon next week, he'll have every reason to feel like an old hand.

For while completing one marathon would be enough of a lifetime achievement for most people, 57-year-old Mr Evans will be competing for the 25th time.

His achievement is all the more remarkable given that he suffers from asthma - and that, at the age of 21, he suffered a serious knee injury while playing football after which it was feared he would never walk unaided again.

Despite his breathing difficulties and several knee operations, Mr Evans has travelled the world to run in marathons from New York to Australia.

His love affair with long distance running began in 1982 when he completed his first marathon in Wolverhampton.

Since then, he has competed in events in New Zealand, South Africa, Mexico and all over Europe.

In 1996, he completed the 100th Boston marathon and then went on to run the London marathon in the same week.

So far, he has raised £15,000 for various charities and next week in London he will be running for the National Asthma Campaign.

Mr Evans, who lives at Brancepeth Village, near Durham City, said: "Being fit and active has really helped me to manage my asthma and the marathons are a great excuse to travel the world.

"My asthma can be a problem because pollen and pollution can trigger an attack. That is why I have chosen to run for the National Asthma Campaign and I'm hoping to raise at least £500."