A CHILDREN'S cancer charity is almost £4,000 richer, thanks to the efforts of a 21-year-old Bolton man and the promise he made to a friend.

Phil Mather was able to send the donation to the CLIC Sargent charity after he ran the New York Marathon in memory of Gareth Mace, who died three years ago aged just 17.

The two were best friends at Rivington and Blackrod Sixth Form College, and swore that they would visit New York together one day.

But cancer claimed the life of Gareth, from Horwich, before that plan could come to fruition.

Phil, an apprentice electrician from Westbank Road, Lostock, decided to go to New York himself and run in its famous marathon to raise money in Gareths name.

Although he had no experience of running, he trained hard and got sponsorship from family, friends and local companies like Warburtons and Lostock firm Rooftech.

The result was £3,754 collected from Phils efforts.

He completed the marathon in 4 hours 49 minutes, and, in spite of the gruelling run, Phil is already planning to return to the Big Apple next year for another go at the famous event.

"It was hard work," he said.

"But I think Gareth got me through it."