A MAN who was left blind after complications following an operation is preparing to lace up his trainers for the Chicago Marathon to thank a charity for supporting him in his recovery.

Mark Rogerson from the town centre, will be taking part in the windy city 26.2 mile event on Sunday, October 7 to raise money for the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) which has supported him since he lost his sight in 2013.

The 36-year-old seasoned runner, who has completed the Virgin Money London Marathon in three consecutive years, will be taking on the international race with his Chicago-based guide runner, Kate, by his side.

Local businesses including JB Leitch, Eric Wright Group, Angel Revive Alkaline Water and Bayswater Bathrooms have already sponsored Mark, but now RNIB is calling on others to show their support.

Speaking about his next challenge, Mark said: “I wanted to turn a massive negative in my life into something positive, and that’s what running is for me. Taking part in the London Marathon has been amazing, but I’ve always wanted to visit Chicago so this seemed like the perfect excuse!

“After I lost my sight, I experienced a real rollercoaster of emotions and was unsure what the future held for me.

"RNIB has been there for me every step of the way and so this is my way of saying thank you. I’d love to have the support of local businesses to help me raise as much money as possible for this fantastic cause.”

Andrea Glover, RNIB network manager for the North West, added: “Mark is an absolute inspiration, raising around £20,000 for RNIB in the last few years.

"His support, and the generosity of local businesses like JB Leitch, is vital in helping us continue to break down the barriers facing blind and partially sighted people here in the UK.

“We’d like to say a huge thank you to all the businesses who have already sponsored Mark and we’d love to add some more to the list, so please do get in touch if you’d like to make a contribution.”

Mark hopes to cross the finish line in the Bank of America Chicago Marathon in under six hours and raise £1,500 to fund the production of a children’s Talking Book for RNIB’s library.

To help Mark reach his fundraising target, please contact Andrea Glover at RNIB on andrea.glover@rnib.org.uk or 07717 301741.

Alternatively you can make a donation at justgiving.com/teamrnib10k.