A Harpenden man took part in the Berkhamsted Half Marathon on Sunday to raise awareness of the local wildlife in aid of Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust.

Alan Cotterell, 34, who is part of the membership team at the Wildlife Trust, completed the run in one hour and 50 minutes, beating his target of sub two hours.

Before the race, the keen runner said he hoped to raise awareness, as well as funds, to help the trust’s work preserving precious habitats at nature reserves throughout the county.

Mr Cotterell of Piggottshill Lane, said: "This was my first half marathon for four years. I put in a lot of training and I’m really pleased to have completed the course within my two hour target time, especially as the Berkhamsted Half Marathon is pretty tough, with a route that includes some very steep hills."

"It was a lot of hard work, but incredibly rewarding to have met the challenge and I’m supporting a cause that I feel passionately about at the same time."

Mr Cotterell has already raised £150 through sponsorship and pledges. To sponsor him visit http://www.justgiving.com/alanjcotterell.