POLICEMAN Nick Arthur's has has gone on the run for charity.

More used to policing the London Marathon than running in it, PC Arthur, 41, who is based in Middlesbrough, decided to get in shape and compete in this year's event to raise money for Childline.

He has already lost two stones in weight. And he has been joined in training by the rest of his family.

Wife Jacqueline goes jogging, while children Josephine, aged six, and Edward, ten, have both completed a Junior Great North Run.

PC Arthur said: "I have always wanted to run but just needed the incentive. I have completed a ten-miler over at Preston and a couple of six-milers. I applied for the marathon and I got in.

"I joined Cleveland Police from London and when I was there I used to work the marathon, which is a real occasion.

"It will be nice to go back as a competitor," he said.

PC Arthur has regular morning runs and is sticking to a healthy eating regime.

He has set up his own website, www.justgiving.com/getmeroundaid, to help raise as much money as possible.