FOOTBALL crazy James Pomfret will fly the flag for his home team when he makes his debut run in the London Marathon.

Mr Pomfret, 39, of Ribbleton Avenue, Preston, is to be the official representative of Preston North End Football Club at this year's event.

Marathon sponsors, Flora, appealed through the Citizen for suitable candidates and the caretaker at St Joseph's School fitted the bill.

He said: "I've supported Preston North End since childhood and I'm really proud to be representing them. All my family are fans and they've promised to cheer me on from home."

The Red Rose Road Runner is now part of the Goal Bond Football Challenge which involves each football league club sending a representative in team colours to take part in the 26-mile event.

The 92 runners will have micro-chips fitted to their laces so that their progress can be monitored

He has also been sponsored by St Joseph's to raise money for a new computer.

He added: "The school's computer desperately needs updating so it is great that I can support them too."

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