A FAMILY doctor is running the London Marathon one last time to give the perfect tonic to a young patient.

Dr Malcolm Brown, aged 42, hung up his running shoes after taking part in last year's London Marathon.

But he has been lulled out of retirement by schoolgirl Ruth Madeley.

Ruth, from Westhoughton, is confined to a wheelchair with Spina Bifida, but tirelessly raises money for Whizz Kidz, a charity which helps children with disabilities.

The pupil at Mount St Joseph, Farnworth, was one of the first children in the country to receive the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Award, because of her enthusiasm and contribution to the community.

When the inspirational youngster asked Dr Brown if he would run on behalf on Whizz Kids, he found it difficult to refuse.

He said: "I have done four marathons and last year I ran the London one on behalf of St Ann's Hospice. Afterwards I promised my wife it would be my last time.

"But how can you say no to a girl like Ruth? She is an inspiration to a lot of people.

"I have known Ruth since she was born. She is quite an enterprising young lady."

Sunday's Marathon coincides with a board meeting of Whizz Kids in London, so Ruth hopes she can catch a glimpse of Dr Brown in action.

Dr Brown said: "Last year, I raised £3,000 for St Ann's Hospice, and this year I am hoping to reach at least £1,500."

Whizz Kidz is a charity which provides specialist mobility equipment to help get disabled children.

Anyone who would like to sponsor Dr Brown can contact him at Peter House, Westhoughton.