AMMAN Valley rugby legend Shane Williams MBE has joined Team Panda, WWF-UK's team of super-supporters, to take on the challenge of the 2015 Virgin Money London Marathon.

He chose to fundraise for WWF because of his love for the natural world and concern for the future of the planet.

Williams is a Welsh Rugby Union player, most famous for his long and successful tenure as a Wing for the Ospreys and the Wales National Team. He has 88 caps for Wales and 4 caps for British and Irish Lions.

Shane was selected at the IRB Player of the Year in 2008. Since his retirement he has worked as a presenter on S4C's Six Nations Rugby Programme and as a pundit on BBC Broadcasts. He is currently still playing in Japan and will end his playing season there in 2014-2015 as a player-coach.

Shane said: "Ever since I was a kid I’ve been fascinated by animals and concerned by the way we look after our planet. I’m really excited to be part of Team Panda and do my small bit to help WWF care for wildlife and protect endangered species for future generations. The London Marathon has always been on my bucket list and I can’t wait to take part in this awesome event!"

As part of an initiative for this New Year, WWF-UK is encouraging people to get fit in 2015 through their 'Let's Get Physical' drive - getting as many people as possible running, cycling, swimming and having fun while helping to do their bit for our amazing planet.

In 2014 Team Panda collectively ran, cycled and swam more miles than ever before to help fund the charity's vital conservation work. By committing their time and effort into training and fundraising they raised more than £425,000 to support WWF's work, and 2015 promises to be even bigger.

WWF-UK's events manager Charlotte Bagg said: "WWF's challenge events will provide you with something to aim towards for the New Year and all of Team Panda's support will inspire you to reach your personal goal – while helping to save our beautiful planet at the same time.

“We’re thrilled that Shane is part of Team Panda. He’s an inspiration to so many, and we hope that people will be motivated by him to take on their own challenge in 2015.”

Whether you’ve never run before or are a seasoned pro, WWF’s list of activities will provide you with something to aim towards and Team Panda’s support will help you reach your goal. Enter any of WWF-UK’s challenges during January to be in with a chance of winning a signed Andy Murray or Andrew Triggs-Hodge t-shirt, or even a panda onesie!

To find out more and see a full list of WWF-UK’s 2015 events and sign up please visit wwf.org.uk/events

You can sponsor Shane at www.justgiving.com/SWilliamsWWF/