WHEN Bratton Clovelly resident Robert James undertakes the greatest challenge of his life in April, the London Marathon, no-one will be more proud than his 13-year-old daughter Sarah.

Robert, 43, will be running for the Downs Syndrome Association, which he has supported since Sarah was born with the condition.

But in order to boost his fundraising effort, Robert, who also has an eight-year-old daughter, Emily, is going one step further and having a 'bring and buy' auction a month ahead of the run at the Clovelly Inn in Bratton Clovelly.

The farmer and partner in a local abattoir business is appealing for donations for the auction and his aim is to get 50 lots.

'The Bratton Clovelly community has always been very supportive of Sarah and accepted her as just a normal teenager so I am hoping everyone will support this auction which is for Sarah's charity,' he said.

With 17 lots already on the table, ranging from bed and breakfast in Somerset to half a lamb, Robert is optimistic he can reach his aim.

He said his decision to run the marathon was purely and simply for Sarah who was a 'lovely kid' with a real love of animals, particularly her cattle. Robert's herd was the only pedigree herd in Bratton Clovelly to escape slaughter during the foot and mouth crisis.

'It has not been an easy time for any of us and Sarah has suffered convulsions and a heart attack due to her condition,' he said. 'The money I raise will go towards helping her and other people with Downs and their families.'

Robert is walking and jogging seven miles a day to get in training for the big event on April 14.

The 'bring and buy' auction on March 13 starts at 7pm and will include musical entertainment and refreshments.

If anyone wants to make a contribution to the auction they can call Robert on 01837 871119.