A street cleaner claims running is key to his happiness, as he continues towards his goal of joining the exlusive 100 Marathon Club.

Merton Council worker Tom Cheetham, who lives in Downside Close, Wimbledon, ran his first marathon in London in 1991 in just over five hours and will run his 40th in Dublin this October.

The 45-year-old has continued to improve his personal best, running last year’s Brighton marathon in 3 hours 12 minutes, a time officially classed as “good for age”.

This April, he will complete his 10th London marathon, but will have little time to rest before he takes part in the Brighton marathon again, just a week later.

Mr Cheetham, who runs most evenings, said his hobby was one of the most important things in his life.

He said: “People see me cleaning the streets and view me in a certain way, but I enjoy what I do – it is a job and that is what matters.

"But my job is only a small part of my life, it is running that makes me who I am.

"If times are ever tough, running allows me to clear my mind.”

A member of the successful Hercules running club, based at Wimbledon Park, Mr Cheetham not only takes part in marathons, but also in many other events.

One of his most important runs this year is the London to Brighton Challenge on May 12, for which he is raising money for Cancer Research.

He added: “The charity is close to my heart as my aunt died of cancer in 2007, and as she was a carer for her blind husband, it was an even greater loss.”

He has raised £150 to date, and aims to reach £375 before the race.

Anyone who wishes to sponsor him can can call him on 020 8715 6630.

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