Published: Wednesday, 17th June, 2009 6:20pm

Fergus proves that 13 can bring good luck

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A 68-YEAR-OLD marathon-runner who has brought decades of good fortune to a charity will wear the number 13 in an upcoming race.

Organisers asked the aptly named Renfrew man Fergus Speed to wear the number to mark the fact that he has brought in over £13,000 for the Children"s Hospice Association Scotland (CHAS).

The race is the 13.1 mile "Diet Coke" East Kilbride Half Marathon on June 21 - and CHAS was nominated as this year"s official charity.

The kind-hearted Renfrew man said: 'I started running for CHAS after seeing charities raise money for children abroad. While they are very worthwhile causes, I began to wonder who was looking after kids in Scotland. Since I started fundraising I have been to the hospice to see the kids and I always shed a tear. The relief they bring to families during difficult times is worth running many miles for.'

He added: 'I am not sure exactly how much I have raised but it is certainly over £13,000. I have been running for about 26 years and you lose track after a while. I ran the London Marathon recently and take part in several half marathons every year.

'CHAS have been grateful for every penny I have raised. Whether it is seven pounds, seventy pounds or seven hundred you feel that they are delighted by everyone"s efforts.'

Grace Wilson, regional fundraiser for CHAS, said: 'We"re grateful to Fergus for his continued efforts to raise money. He is a fixture in the running calendar, inspiring others to raise money as well.'

CHAS is a Scottish charity that provides the only hospice services in Scotland for children and young people with life-limiting conditions.

To join Fergus in this year"s "Diet Coke" East Kilbride Half Marathon or 10k, both to be held on June 21, visit www.ekhalfmarathon.co.uk or phone 01698 476118. To fundraise for CHAS contact 0141 779 6180. Entries to the popular race close on Monday June 15. CHAS will receive £1 from every entry fee.