A Teddington trader known for his community spirit is running the London Marathon for a Teddington charity close to his heart.

Rob Wilks of Teddington Carpets will take on the 26 mile course this weekend to raise funds for independent living charity Ruils after being inspired by their amazing work during the pandemic.

Rob, who loves rock music and has been described as a "larger than life character," says he hasn't run for 25 years but wanted to give back to the community.

He said: "Ruils is a local charity that is dear to my heart.

"They did fantastic work during Covid, providing welfare food parcels to local families as well as keeping all of their advice services running."

Rob is known as a generous sponsor of events and raffles, in Teddington and last year sponsored the online gig Rockin' the Lockin' along with the Anglers pub.

His business, Teddington Carpets, is also a regular participant in Fiver Fest run by Totally Locally Teddington which will return this October.

Rob decided to take part in the marathon as he was impressed by Ruils' work supporting Teddington's vulnerable and isolated people during the pandemic.

On his justgiving page he writes: "Aside from their normal work providing information, advice, befriending, accessible activities and counselling to local disabled people and their families, Ruils has been outstanding over the last 16 months at supporting their clients through the pandemic.

"Last March they started operating a foodbank out of their main conference room and recruited 100 volunteers to deliver food parcels, collect prescriptions and make befriending telephone calls to shielding clients.

"Now, as restrictions are eased, they are supporting clients to get out and about again, and regain their confidence, through 121 befriending walks and by restarting accessible groups such as their wheelchair walking group and community choir."

Rob has so far raised over £1,300 and hopes to reach his £2000 target by Sunday.

The money he raises will go towards Ruils' SEND Befriending service 'Friendbee' for young people with special needs.

FriendBee enables disabled young people to get out and about and enjoy activities of their choice, with someone outside of their family.

This helps them to begin to develop some independence and develop their social skills, while also giving parents a much needed break from their caring responsibilities.

The vital service is now back after lockdown but receives no government funding - meaning Ruils has to raise over £30k a year to keep it running.

Donations to Rob's challenge can be made on his Virgin Money Giving page.

Cathy Maker, CEO of Ruils, said: "Rob and Teddington Carpets have supported Ruils and our clients for many years.

"But this time it is personal.

"Rob is taking on an enormous challenge and we are so grateful for his support."

In an interview with Rob in 2019, local group Teddington Together said he is "a true representative of community spirit."

Read the full interview here.