A FITNESS fanatic dad-of-one has refused to let his visual impairment hold him back as he prepares to take on his toughest running challenge to date.

Daniel Clarke, aged 34, who is registered blind is currently in training for the London Marathon.

As a child Mr Clarke was diagnosed with X-linked retinitis pigmentosa which has got progressively worse and caused him to lose much of his sight.

Although he had previously played football and cricket in his 20s, Mr Clarke decided to give running a go around three years ago as part of a health kick.

Losing his sight had begun to take a big toll on Mr Clarke leaving him struggling with his self confidence and mental health.

However he became instantly hooked and after first taking on park runs he has moved on to half and full marathon distances, as well as becoming a member of Ramsbottom Running Club.

Mr Clarke, who is a volunteer at Bury Blind Society and lives with his wife Briony and her son in Hollins Lane, said: “Running has really helped with my body confidence.

“I do suffer with depression and the running really does get the endorphins going and helps me channel that and tackle my stress levels.”

At the London Marathon, which takes place in April, Mr Clarke will be fundraising for the charity Look which supports visually impaired young people and their families.

And joining him for the marathon will be his running guide Glyn who keeps him safe from obstacles and injuries.

He said: “Please help me by donating so that this fantastic charity Look can further their plans to help young people with sight loss.”

To donate visit https://bit.ly/2Rg3Buk