A young runner who suffers from diabetes will be setting the pace in a fun run in aid of Diabetes UK.
Darcy McBride, of Kimpton Bottom near Hitchin was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in January 2007 just three years after his father Kevin was told he had the condition aged 44.
The 10-year-old will be completing a three-mile fun run event at the St Albans Half Marathon on Sunday – the first day of Diabetes Week.
Darcy's mum, 39-year-old Nikki McBride, said: "Darcy is an amazing little boy who has never let his condition get in the way of anything he wants to do.
"He has chosen to run the fun run on his own and he is desperate to raise money so that in the future children do not have to live the life he does.
"He never moans about his condition but he knows that his life is different to others and can sometimes be scary and awkward."
The Beechwood Park School pupil was hoping to raise £500 but has already exceeded his expectations and has collected more than £800.
He is now aiming to raise around £1,000 for the charity.
Darcy, who is busy training for the event by running to the corner shop and back, said: "I love all kinds of sports and diabetes doesn't stop me doing anything so I really wanted to do this to show people and help raise money.
"If my money could help pay for some research to find a cure or even kinder ways of testing blood I would be really happy."
As well as running Darcy represents Hertfordshire in the under 11 County Badminton Team, and competes for his school in rugby, football, tennis, cricket, table tennis and badminton.
His mother added: "Darcy's school has been amazingly supportive often going above and beyond to make sure he is looked after.
"Kevin also deals with his diabetes in a very matter of fact way not letting it affect his life and he has been a great inspiration to Darcy."
Mrs Mcbride told the Mercury Darcy and the family had been overwhelmed by the support from his teachers, many of whom had personally donated towards his fundraising efforts.
Sharon Roberts, eastern regional manager for Diabetes UK, said: "Darcy is a wonderful example of how you can live life to the full with the condition and for him to do something to help others and prove what can be achieved is fantastic."
