A TEAM of runners will complete a “couch to 5km” programme to help fund an operation for a five-year-old boy.

Led by Shelite Fitness’ Rachael Pugh, the 11 novice athletes will be participating in the beginners’ challenge by completing a total of 50km up until Saturday, September 30 in aid of the Lincoln’s Legs appeal.

At this point, the Shelite Warriors group will be completing the 5km Bryn Bach parkrun in Tredegar.

The appeal aims to raise £100,000 for Lincoln Hope, of Garndiffaith, who has cerebral palsy, to have an operation in America.

The operation – a spinal dorsal rhizotomy – would be followed by years of physiotherapy, and would enable Lincoln to walk rather than being forced to use a wheelchair.

The Warriors group have received the backing of the Torfaen MP Nick Thomas-Symonds, who attended the team’s first session on Sunday, July 23.

He said: “I was so pleased to support this brilliant project which is raising money for such a wonderful cause.

“I know from personal experience how great a personal trainer Rachael is – she transformed me since I started running last year – and all those participating will have the great benefit of improving their personal fitness in the next few months.

“Most importantly, they all know that their efforts are helping Lincoln Hope in raising the money he needs for a truly life-changing operation.”

All money raised by the appeal will go directly to Lincoln’s Legs, and donations can be made online.

Ms Pugh said: “I was delighted Nick could come along and support the runners as they begin their challenge.

“I am so pleased to be able to use my role as a personal trainer to help raise funds and awareness for Lincoln Hope.

“This is the perfect challenge – an opportunity to transform so many lives with a health and fitness challenge and help a little boy stay active.”

Meanwhile a comedy fundraiser featuring Frankie Boyle and Francesca Martinez, who has the same condition as Lincoln, has raised just short of £28,000 for the appeal, as ticket sales pass the 1,000 mark.

Ticket sales for the Cardiff show in September have raised £27,957.50, with 1,055 of the 1,581 already sold.

Lincoln’s mother Jessica Hope, who launched the appeal, will be completing a trek across the Brecon Beacons in September to raise money for her son.

The Shelite Warriors “Legit4Lincoln” fundraising page can be found at bit.ly/2uR50xV.