Runner aims for new best at marathon

A former lecturer is putting on his running shoes and aiming for a personal best in the London Marathon.

Nicholas Sermon, who was head of art and media at Mid Kent College, is now his own boss and his company, Sermon Learning, offers tuition on how to get the best out of Apple technology.

The dad-of-two ran his first marathon last year at Brighton, finishing the course in four hours and two minutes. His ambition is to complete the London Marathon in under four hours.

Nicholas, who lives in Rolvenden High Street, is running for the British Dyslexic Association (BDA). He said: “I’m dyslexic and found school was a struggle, but I was lucky that my teachers recognised it and encouraged me, and I went off to university to follow my passion.

“I have gone on to receive three graduate qualifications in the arts and had a successful career in teaching.”

“Running the London Marathon will give me a chance to raise awareness and ensure that we build on the fantastic work achieved so far by the BDA and act as inspiration for others who think things are just too hard.”

To sponsor Nicholas visit http:// uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ giving/ and search for Nicholas Sermon.

If you are running in the London or Brighton marathons and would like to be featured in the paper please write to Kentish Express, 34-36 North Street, Ashford TN24 8JR, or email kentishexpress@thekmgroup. co.uk An Ashford mum-of-five will take part in a tandem skydive to raise money for two cancer charities.

Zurina Brown, 54, was previously diagnosed with throat cancer and wants to raise money to help those also suffering by taking part in the high rise challenge at Headcorn airfield on Sunday, January 22.

Zurina, who has 18 grandchildren, said: “I don’t believe

Marathon runner Nicholas with his wife Clare