PUPILS are backing a headteacher who is going on the run to help a disabled children's charity.

Tony Kemp, in charge at Tudhoe St Charles RC Primary, near Spennymoor, for the past ten years, is crossing the Atlantic next month to join thousands of runners in one of the world's top long distance races - the Chicago Marathon.

He hopes to raise £1,300 for the Get Kids Going charity, whose president is former Olympic gold medallist Sebastian Coe, and which encourages children with disabilities to take part in sport. Mr Kemp is no stranger to the gruelling 26-mile marathon distance. He completed six, including four in his home city of Liverpool, before calling a halt in 1986.

His decision to resume training came at the start of the year. He said: "It was something to do with celebrating the millennium. I wanted to make a fresh start."

He has written to pupils' parents asking for their support and is hoping businesses in the area will sponsor his efforts.

Already, Sedgefield Borough Council has agreed to contribute £100.