A man is running two marathons in less than a month to help a charity that provides "incredibly valuable" advice for vulnerable people.

Steven Harding-Lister from St John’s Road, Epping, is raising money for Epping Forest Citizens Advice who provide advice on everyday issues from finances to employment.

The 44-year-old, who runs PR company Goodfellow Communications, got the idea to run both London and Paris Marathons after completing his first long run in 2014.

He said: “I got to the end of the race and wondered what on earth would it feel like to do it all over again. I questioned is it possible to run two marathons in a fortnight?”

Mr Harding-Lister began running seriously ten years ago, having initially taken it up to improve his fitness.

Despite describing training as “tough”, he is currently running more than 30 miles a week and plans to gradually build up his stamina for the marathons.

The running enthusiast was planning run last year for Epping Forest Citizens Advice but was forced to defer his place following an injury.

“I was given the opportunity by the charity to take one of their places and I jumped at the opportunity, not only to have another crack at the London Marathon but to raise money for an important cause.” he explained.

When asked why he chose to raise money for the charity, Mr Harding-Lister said: “They do incredibly valuable work much of which is unseen for thousands of people on the community and it provides an enormous range of services, I felt it was important to do what I could to help them out.

“I have a minimum target of £2,000 but hope to raise more than that.”

Mr Harding-Lister said his partner, Scott, and two colleagues will be running the Paris Marathon while runners from Orion Harriers in Chingford will take part in London.

He is encouraging as many friends, colleagues and family members to support him and raise money where ever possible.

“I’ve got no reason to feel I wont do it,” he said. “With the support who I am running and those who are supporting my fundraising it makes it all seem worthwhile.”

To make a donation, visit https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/StevenHardingLister