When Mr Jarrett's daughter was misdiagnosed with cystic fibrosis last year it struck fear in the family's hearts. So now the local dad is preparing for the challenge of the Great South Run to raise money for cystic fibrosis sufferers across the country.

Mr Jarrett, from Bishop's Waltham, will take part in the 10-mile race to raise vital funds for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust.

Mike, who is preparing for the run, said: 'My three-year-old daughter Isabel was diagnosed on her second birthday, last year.

'Thankfully, the diagnosis was made in error, but for 48 hours my wife and I had an all too real experience of what life is like for a child with cystic fibrosis.

'It was certainly a birthday we'll never forget and our brief insight into living with and fighting against cystic fibrosis has inspired me to try and do all that I can to help the trust.'

Cystic Fibrosis is the UK's most common, life-threatening inherited disease and claims three young lives a week in the UK.

Average life expectancy is just 31, although improvements in treatments mean a baby born today is expected to live longer.

Sponsorship money will help provide support, advice and appropriate clinical care to the 8,000 babies, children and adults with cystic fibrosis in the UK.

The Bupa Great South Run will be held in Portsmouth on Sunday, October 26.

To get involved contact the Cystic Fibrosis Trust events team on 0845 8591100. You can also sponsor Mike Jarrett at www.justgiving.com/mikejarrett_GreatSouthRun.