The Master of Music at St Wulfram's Church is taking part in his first marathon next month to raise money for causes close to his heart.

Dr Tim Williams only took up running three years ago and is now facing the challenge of a marathon in the Scottish capital.

"I started running as a way to unwind and get fit - musicians lead a fairly sedentary lifestyle," he told Grantham Nub News.

"Then it really grew on me and I love it. I always run outdoors, I find it relaxing.

"I just kept upping the distances and, having run a 10k and two half marathons, wondered if I could try for a marathon.

"I decided to take the plunge and signed up for the Edinburgh event."

The 38-year-old, who lives in Grantham, will be heading north to take part in the Edinburgh Marathon on Sunday, May 26.

Tim has already smashed his £1,500 sponsorship target with four weeks of fundraising still remaining.

He says: "I'm absolutely delighted - and a little surprised - to have raised £1,600 at this stage.

"I am extremely grateful to all those who have supported my fundraising." Tim, who has been Master of Music at St Wulfram's for more than 11 years, is splitting his sponsorship money three ways - all supporting musical causes in his home town. "Half the funds will help support St Wulfram's choristers in their amazing opportunity to sing for a week in York Minster this summer. "Fundraising is key to ensure residencies such as this are accessible to all and the choristers, their families and supporters raise much of this themselves through carol singing, cake sales, tombolas, recitals and other events - but there is always need for additional fundraising. "St Wulfram's Church will donate 25 percent of the total to the Grantham Music Festival to support young musicians and the remaining 25 percent to the Philip Lank Trust - a local charity sponsoring a choral scholarship scheme benefitting teenage singers." Tim is now counting down the days to his first marathon. "I'm running regularly, but shorter distances, and eating well in preparation for the big day," he adds. If anyone would like to sponsor Tim they can visit his online fundraising page by clicking the red button below.