'Oaks star to complete two charity runs

Hollyoaks star John Pickard has announced that he is taking part in a double running challenge.

The 31-year-old actor, who plays Dominic Reilly on the Channel 4 soap, will compete in next weekend's BUPA Great North Run as well as November's ING New York Marathon in order to raise money for charity.

Pickard will be running in aid of Leonard Cheshire Disability and The Prostate Cancer Charity, it has been confirmed.

Speaking about his fundraising, Pickard explained: "It's a real honour to be supporting two such important charities. My granddad had prostate cancer - and was cared for by my mum at home when he became disabled towards the end of his days, so both charities have a great personal significance to me.

"I've also been to visit a number of Leonard Cheshire Disability services so I know what a great job they do supporting disabled people to live life their way. I will be training hard to get ready for both challenges and I am really looking forward to getting there and running my heart out on the day."

Pickard has previously raised money for Leonard Cheshire Disability by running in the London Marathon.

His Justgiving sponsorship page can be found by clicking here.