The first of four charity ambassadors has told how he is so determined to help raise money for charity that he will attempt to run the half-marathon quicker than ever.

Danny Dwyer, 38, will be completing the Brighton Half Marathon for The Sussex Beacon and insists his support for the charity has never been stronger.

He has been actively involved with HIV support centre The Sussex Beacon for three years.

Mr Dwyer, a legal agent from Brighton, said: “HIV has been part of my life for many years.

“I often sit back and look over the volunteering work I have done and what I’m involved with currently in the community.

“Volunteering with the HIV sector is a wonderful thing, yet a roller-coaster of emotions.

“My support and commitment to The Sussex Beacon couldn't be any stronger.

“I do what I do to help people smile, to keep them motivated and to believe in themselves.

“I have met so many inspirational people through volunteering that have encouraged me to keep smiling myself and I never want this journey to end.”

Mr Dwyer is the first of four charity ambassadors who will speak on behalf of each of the official charities they are running for, sharing their stories.

The charity ambassadors are supported with practical advice and receive sports products from Brighton Half Marathon and its partners, including ASICS, Runners Need, Lucozade and Studio57.

The Sussex Beacon, the organisers of Brighton Half Marathon and the headline charity, confirmed yesterday their youth races have sold out.

Youth runners will compete over a one-mile distance on Brighton Half Marathon race day, February 16.

All 500 places have been snapped up by entrants of all levels and all abilities, aged from seven to 17 years old.

Emma Greenough, Active for Life project manager children and young people from the Sports Development Team at Brighton and Hove City Council, said: “It’s great that these young people can take part in the Youth Races on the Half Marathon Sunday, so they get a feel for the event and finish down on Madeira Drive before the masses come through.

“Hopefully it will inspire these young people to keep on running and maybe one day take part in the half marathon themselves.”

Event Manager Paul Bond said hopes the youngsters taking part will be inspired by the event and will be among the main event participants in years to come.