Carmarthen East and Dinefwr MP Jonathan Edwards swapped shirt and tie for tracksuit and trainers as he raised £500 for a Towy Valley charity at the weekend.

Mr Edwards completed the Royal Parks half-marathon in two hours and 18 minutes on behalf of ChallengeAid.

The charity was established in 2005 by Llandovery resident Iestyn Thomas, who also coaches the Llandovery College rugby team.

The charity helps disadvantaged children who live in appalling conditions in the developing world. It has worked with over a thousand schools and a 250,000 pupils, raising more than a quarter-of-a-million pounds.

The charity funds Schools of Hope operate after school hours, giving children educational support by providing desks, chairs, lighting and most importantly a good supply of up-to-date text books with responsible supervision in a safe and conducive learning environment.

Mr Edwards said: “I’m grateful to everyone who sponsored me and gave what they could for an excellent charity.

“ChallengeAid undertakes some fantastic work for the most disadvantaged children in the world.

“Although I’d never do a half marathon again, I’m pleased to have contributed just a small piece to their efforts.

“It was a great feeling being amongst thousands of people who were raising money for their chosen charities.

“ Day in day out, Carmarthenshire residents are involved in activities which raise money for good causes.

“Whether it’s organising a coffee morning, a local raffle or running a full marathon, I’m proud to represent thousands of constituents who give so much for good causes.”

With Gift Aid, Mr Edwards raised over £500 for the charity.