An Ammanford man is hoping to tackle homelessness in Wales by taking part in this year’s London Marathon.

Carl Pocock has received a £1,000 donation from Persimmon Homes West Wales’ Community Champions scheme, which has given away over £1million across the UK since March 2015.

The 30-year-old, who has previously taken part in the Cardiff Half Marathon, will be running the 26-mile route for Shelter Cymru, a charity organisation that focuses on helping the homeless across Wales.

This year's London Marathon takes place on Sunday, April 23.

Carl said: “This kind donation from Persimmon Homes will be a fantastic help to Shelter Cyrmu.

“It will be a great thrill to pull on my running shoes for this fantastic charity and I’m so happy to say that I can play my part in their fight against homelessness.

"Over 1,100 children in Wales were without a home over Christmas and as a father of two I find this statistic absolutely shocking.

“Running the marathon is a personal goal of mine but my ultimate aim is to raise awareness of homelessness in Wales, whilst raising some funds for Shelter Cymru.

“I can’t thank Persimmon enough for their kind donation and would definitely encourage others within the community to apply."

Carl also has plans to organise a local talent contest in the community to raise as much money as possible for the cause.

Sharon Robinson, sales director for Persimmon Homes West Wales, said: “Our Community Champions scheme is made for causes like Carl’s marathon run and we’re so pleased to back him and Shelter Cyrmu.

“Persimmon Homes West Wales has had a fantastic response to its Community Champions scheme and it is always a difficult choice.

“If people were unsuccessful last month, we urge them to visit the Persimmon Homes website and to try again and hopefully they will become our next Community Champion.”

Charities can apply for up to £1,000 funding by visiting www.persimmonhomes.com/charity