A DEDICATED supporter of a charity will be running in a marathon dressed as the famous Pokémon character Pikachu.

Paul Brown from Wokingham will be taking part in the Brighton Marathon Weekend and has set himself the challenge to complete 10km to raise money for the Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice.

Paul has supported the charity for the past few years and recently took part in an annual Santa Dash in Windsor.

Mr Brown believes that this will be a new challenge because of how large and heavy the costume is.

He said: “I am really looking forward to the run, but I have never challenged myself as much due to this costume being so big at 8ft tall.

"The costume has no air vents so it should be an interesting run. I chose Pikachu as it is such a recognised character amongst the young and old so I am hoping for a lot of encouragement along the route."

Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service is an award-winning charity that provides essential support to families of children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions across Berkshire and the surrounding area.

Julia Philipson, community fundraiser for Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service, added: “For a lot of people running 10km is a tough enough challenge, but to do it dressed in such a large and cumbersome costume is going to be quite a feat.

“We are thrilled Paul has chosen to support us in this challenge and we wish him the best of luck.

“We could not provide support for our families without the fundraising efforts of wonderful people like Paul, it really does make such a difference to us.”

The services provided by the charity include respite care, symptom management, family support, end of life care and bereavement support.

Paul believes the charity is important to support inspirational teenagers.

He said: “Raising money for Alexander Devine was an easy decision; they provide such an important service to inspirational youngsters and their families in my local area and I just want to try and do my bit to continue this amazing charity’s work.”

Paul will be taking part in the race on Sunday, April 14. For more information about the race, visit: http://www.brightonmarathonweekend.co.uk/.