RHYS Ellingham is gearing up for this Sunday’s Silverstone Half-Marathon.

The 19-year-old from Benfleet works for both Southend United and Essex Cricket Club.

And he is racing this weekend to raise funds for the Parkinson’s UK charity.

“My aunt suffers from Parkinson’s so it was always the charity I had in mind,” said Rhys.

“One day I’d like to run the London Marathon so I thought this would be a good starting block and I’m looking forward to it.”

Ellingham will be running alongside his dad on the day and has already raised more than £300.

He has also been backed by Blues boss Paul Sturrock, who suffers from Parkinson’s himself.

To sponsor Rhys visit www.virginmoney.com/rhysellinghamsilverstonehalfmarathon