A FORMER Eastleigh basketball star will be running through the streets of London to help a cause close to his heart.

Ex-Solent Stars' Andy Lynas is tackling the London Marathon to raise funds for the Hampshire Riding Therapy Centre, which from its Fisher's Pond stables near Fair Oak has helped hundreds of diabetic children.

Andy - currently playing for Oxford Braves - has two aims in taking on the challenge, one to prove to himself that he could complete the run but also, more importantly, to help young diabetics.

In recent years he has been hit by two family tragedies that could be attributed to the condition, so he was determined to do all he could for the pioneering therapy centre.

The basketball player visited its base in Hensting Lane and offered his help, which was snapped by centre founder Kerie Coutts. Everyone connected with the centre has been rushing to get sponsorship forms completed in time for Sunday's big run.

Kerie said that the cash raised could not come at a better time for the centre as its old horse box has finally had its day. It has been of major concern because of the high cost of a replacement.

Keri said: "Andy's run will hopefully provide a good starting point for the fundraising necessary."

Making sure that Andy is in good shape for the London Marathon have been Alan Cunningham, of Solent Stars, and Colin Irish, of Oxford Braves, who are also keen supporters of the work of the therapy centre.

During his build-up to the marathon Andy visited Lanzarote.

He thought that training in the intense heat would be beneficial and the day he did his 19-mile run the temperature soared to 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

So he is quite confident that a warm day in London will not cause him too many problems as he sets himself a sizzling pace.

If you would like to sponsor Andy's run or would like to know more about the Hampshire Riding Therapy Centre ring 01962 777714.