A TAVISTOCK runner of nearly 60 years old is crossing the Channel to run the Paris Marathon in April.

Phil Stevens has been a teacher at Launceston College for the last 26 years and plans to retire this summer. He thought running a mile for every year he has taught would be a great way to finish his career.

Phil will be running the marathon on April 10, just before his 60th birthday, to raise money for Oxfam.

He has lived in Tavistock for the past 30 years so many people may have seen him puffing his way round the town.

Anyone who would like to sponsor Phil can do so by picking up a sponsor form at the Oxfam shop in West Street or online at http://www.virginmoneygiving.com/PhilStevens">www.virginmoneygiving.com/PhilStevens

Sponsors can also guess Phil's finishing position. The closest guess wins £25.