TEACHER, John Mitton, assistant head at Upper Wharfedale School, is to raise funds for the Upper Wharfedale Fell Rescue Association by running in one of the toughest marathons.

John , 48, will take to the fells on Sunday, May 20, in the Windermere Marathon dubbed the most picturesque marathon in the UK .

With 1,400 feet of ascent it, has a reputation as one of the most challenging road marathons in the country.

"Upper Wharfedale Fell Rescue volunteers do an amazing job coming to the aid of people on a weekly basis," he said.

"They have also generously supported our school by assisting with the Duke Of Edinburgh Award and running an outdoors club which many of our students have attended over the years.

"I just want to make it round Windermere and do my family and friends and all the people who have donated proud - and raise some money for a valuable local charity at the same time."

He has a Just Giving page for donations - justgiving.com/fundraising/jmitton.