A WIRRAL man is taking part in the Vitality Liverpool Half Marathon today in aid of asbestos-related lung cancer research.

He is running 13.1 miles dressed head-to-toe in asbestos safety equipment for the Mick Knighton Mesothelioma Research Fund, which is part of the British Lung Foundation.

Mesothelioma is an aggressive and incurable type of lung cancer caused by exposure to asbestos dust and fibres.

Stuart, 41, from Bebington, said: "I've met and talked to many people and their families affected by mesothelioma and it is an utterly devastating, very cruel and aggressive disease.

"One of the problems is that mesothelioma is a rare cancer and affects mostly people of retirement age, so it's often forgotten and attracts very little research funding; but the brilliant Mick Knighton Mesothelioma Research Fund and the British Lung Foundation are helping to change this."

The Mick Knighton Mesothelioma Research Fund is part of the British Lung Foundation. Every penny goes towards promoting a greater awareness and sponsoring vital research studies into mesothelioma. It also offers information and support to people affected by the lung cancer.

To run the half-marathon Stuart has to wear a disposable coverall suit with hood, safety goggles, gloves and a respiratory mask, which have all been kindly donated by Wirral-based Applied Safety Solutions.

Stuart added: "Asbestos is such a toxic material if disturbed that asbestos removal experts have to wear this strict protective gear.

"I know it's going to be tough and hot to run in, but it’s nothing compared to what mesothelioma sufferers courageously face.

"I'm more worried about scaring the other runners – they’ll think they’ve run into a major chemical leak."

To support Stuart and donate visit www.justgiving.com/Stuart-Hughes-NAH/