THE assistant cub scout leader with 12th Northolt Scouts will run this year’s London Marathon to raise £2,500 for the UK Scout Association.

Kash Soni, 27, has lifelong friends he met as a six-year-old and who remain a part of the association.

He said: "Completing awards such as the Duke of Edinburgh bronze and silver gave me a great foundation in my adult life. It taught me commitment, attention to detail, teamwork, [and] gave me responsibilities."

He completed the Nike Half-Marathon last September and trains four times a week to try to reach the peak of fitness for his upcoming challenge. His dedication can be credited to his years of being a scout.

He said: "I did everything, from climbing to caving, to scuba diving and white water rafting, not to mention all the camping and hiking.

"While my friends were hanging around on street corners and parks, I was off having the best time, doing activities most kids only saw on TV or spoke about."

He has raised £1,020 so far but is keen to reach his target. If you can help, visit www.justgiving.com/kashsoni or text KASH86 £5 (or any amount) to 70070.