A GRATEFUL father is putting on his running shoes later this month to raise funds for a cause close to his heart.

Richy King, 48, from Charminster, Bournemouth, will be taking part in the Shaftesbury Half Marathon on May 27 in aid of the neonatal intensive care unit at Poole Hospital.

His children, three-year-old Florence and six-month-old Archie were both treated in the unit.

Florence was born at 32 weeks weighing 3lb 14.5oz and spent five weeks at the unit.

The day after being born Archie was transferred from the Royal Bournemouth Hospital to the unit after developing breathing problems. He spent a week there.

Richy, who works in a Bournemouth drug treatment centre, told the Daily Echo: “The amazing staff at the unit gave my children life – they are nothing short of a miracle.

“They do such hard work on a daily basis and I want to repay them for what they have done for my children and many more. I am so grateful to them and want to raise as much money as possible for such an incredible cause.”

Richy, who played football but had never run long distances before, is now in training. He said: “I’m running about nine miles at a time now and I’m determined to cross the finishing line. My partner Kirsten is bringing the children along to cheer me on.”

To sponsor Richy go to website www.justgiving.com/richys-run, text WVXG68 £1 to 70070 or phone 07811 206771.