A Teddington resident is set to take part in next week's London Marathon dressed as a knight in support of national charity Ambitious about Autism.

Paul Evans is no stranger to the 26.2 mile challenge, having taken part in the iconic race over a decade ago with an impressive time of three hours and 51 minutes.

Although the 47-year-old is determined to better his time come April 23rd, the Teddington local will have the added challenge of competing dressed as a knight to mark St George's Day which also falls on the Sunday.

Donning a tunic, cape, headpiece, cuffs, belt, knee high boots and equipped with sword and shield, he is hoping to set a Guinness World Record for the fastest marathon runner dressed as a knight.  

Mr Evans has chosen to fundraise for Ambitious about Autism because he has a nine-year-old son who was diagnosed as autistic six years ago. 

He said: "My wife and I have been so lucky to have had continuous support from various schools, nursery, the government, local authority and charitable bodies, as well as the amazing people within those organisations - so this is just me saying thanks to everyone and giving back in my own way! 

"Ambitious is a brilliant charity that has done incredible work to raise awareness and educate - I can't not support."

To boost his fundraising efforts, Mr Evans has set up a JustGiving page, setting a target of £2,023 which he has already more than doubled. So far, he has raised an incredible £4,313 and counting. 

By the time he gets to the starting line, he will have run over half a million metres in total while practicing, but says that not all of these were completed in costume.   

Danae Leaman-Hill, Director of External Affairs and Development at Ambitious about Autism, said: "We are hugely grateful to our determined and dedicated London Marathon runners, whose incredible fundraising efforts play a key role in helping us carry out our vital national work that ensures autistic children and young people can be themselves and realise their ambitions."

Ambitious about Autism is a national charity standing with autistic children and young people. The organisation started as one school and has become a movement for change, leading campaigns and championing rights.

For more information about the charity, or to find out how you can take on a challenge event in support of the organisation, visit the link HERE.