A PENCADER man will compete in this weekend’s London Marathon alongside his brother for a second consecutive year.

And while for many just completing the 26.2-mile course is an achievement, for Mathew and older brother Huw it is even more special as Mathew is registered blind and Huw will act as his guide.

Mathew, 25, said: “I was diagnosed with Leber’s hereditary optic neuropathy in November 2015, but it took receiving my blood test results in January 2016 for me to accept that my sight loss was permanent.

“I always enjoyed running and last summer I decided to join the gym and get back into it. After a few tough years, I needed something to set my mind to and a goal to work towards.

“That’s what made me decide to sign up for the 2018 London Marathon for the RNIB. It was my first time running a marathon, and I had my older brother Huw as my guide runner.

“It may have been the hottest London Marathon on record, but it was the best day of my life. It was an unforgettable feeling that will stay with me forever."

Now Mathew and 30-year-old Huw aim to repeat that feat this year and once more they will be running for the RNIB (Royal National Institute for the Blind), having raised nearly £7,000 last year.

“We did it in five hours and 19 minutes last year but we would love to do it in four and a half hours. That was the am last time but it was just so hot,” said Mathew, who works as an assistant bar manager.

“Huw acts as my guide and warns me of any hazards or obstacles, for example when you get to a water station where a lot of bottles are thrown on the ground.

“We dragged each other along and look to give each other support if we go through a bad patch.”

“I am raising money for the RNIB (Royal National Institute for the Blind) a charity that makes everyday living easier for partially sighted and blind people - they help people in so many different ways including emotional and practical support.

“RNIB has worked closely with me so I could continue to live and work independently.”