A Darlington firefighter is set to tackle the Great North Run in aid of a mental health charity.

Jon-Paul Chilvers joined the County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS) in July, bringing more than a decade of fire service experience from America, Lincolnshire and Hertfordshire.

Drawn to the North East by his love of the region, the 38-year-old, originally from Lincolnshire, plans to take on the iconic half marathon and aims to raise £600 for the Mental Health Foundation.

Jon-Paul said: "Over the last few years, I have had quite a few friends sadly take their own lives and also have friends currently going through mental health issues."

Now working with the Darlington Red Watch team, Jon-Paul views his participation in the marathon as an opportunity to raise mental health awareness especially among men.

The Newcastle to South Shields run is his first half marathon and he hopes to complete the race within two-and-a-half hours.

"I’ve been doing my training runs around Darlington between night shifts and it’s helping me learn where everything is.

"I’m not the quickest runner but I am really looking forward to it."

Friendly competition is assured as Jon-Paul shared that there are others in the service joining the run, and said: "It should be quite fun!"