Pete Harris, left, and Justin Watts Picture: CLARE HOMER Ref: 76592-47TWO Swindon men are gearing up for the London Marathon as a tribute to a friend's son who was killed in a road accident.

Justin Watts and Peter Harris have been pounding the streets of Swindon to get ready for the big race next month.

Ten-year-old Mitchell McCarthy, who had Down's Syndrome, was hit by a car while trying to cross Queen's Drive on his bicycle in June last year.

An inquest in November recorded a verdict of accidental death, clearing car driver Mark Telling, 22, of any wrongdoing.

Justin, 34, and Peter, 35, decided to take part in the marathon to raise funds for the Down's Syndrome Association in memory of the football-mad youngster.

Justin, a printer from Buckhurst Crescent, in Walcot, said: "Mitchell's parents are friends of mine and we decided to run the marathon in his honour.

"Mitchell's death was devastating. It still is.

"When I see his parents now it's difficult to know what to say. So doing this is a tribute to him."

The two are taking the training seriously. They have been running or in the gym up to five days a week since the New Year.

Justin said: "I hadn't run since I left school so this is quite a mission. We're up to 10 miles now. On the first day all I could do was half a mile.

"I've stopped drinking and smoking. The training is quite a commitment."

In December Swindon Town Football Club re-named a weekly coaching session for special needs children after Mitchell.

Events in his memory, including a treadmill marathon have all helped raise cash for the sessions.

The London Marathon takes place on April 17.

Anyone who wants to sponsor Justin and Peter can contact them on 07915 331329.

Dave Andrew