A FORMER Big Brother star is set to tackle the London Marathon later this month - in aid of two north Wales churches.

Glyn Wise became a much-loved star when he appeared on the seventh series of Channel Four show Big Brother in 2007, finishing as runner-up to Pete Bennett.

During his stint on the show, the then-swimming pool lifeguard was also praised for his role in helping to promote the Welsh language.

Since then, Glyn has lived a very different lifestyle and has been training to become a vicar.

The now 36-year-old has spent plenty of time at St Giles' Church in Wrexham while doing so.

Later this month, he will be combining his passion for religion with his passion for running as he takes on the London Marathon on Sunday, April 21.

Glyn will be doing so to raise money for St Giles and also for Eglwys Y Bowydd church in his hometown of Blaenau Ffestiniog in Gwynedd.

Speaking about his decision to take part in the marathon, he said: "I have always loved track and field athletics. Growing up watching Colin Jackson and Marlene Ottie sprint down those red lanes, I was mesmerised.

"I was more of a sprinter growing up, I came third in Wales in the 400m when I was under 18. However, after going into Big Brother I didn't focus on sports."

Glyn added: "I actually ran the London marathon as a naive 19 year old, not really knowing how much 26 miles was and I cried when I saw the sign saying 'You are now half way'. I completed it in over five hours.

"Last year, I ran to raise money for the Salvation Army. I completed it in four hours and 30 seconds, so this time I'm determined to get under the four hour mark." 

In preparation for the big one, Glyn has been taking part in plenty of other races, including the Wrexham half-marathon and the British masters cross-county championships which took place in Corwen last month.

Rhyl Journal: PIC: Glyn Wise with fellow Wrexham ACC runners Gareth Chaloner and Richard Westwood in Corwen last month.

Glyn said: "I'm running to raise money for my local church in Blaenau Ffestiniog and St Giles Church at the heart of Wrexham - where I'm currently on training to be a Vicar.

"I ran Wrexham's half marathon in 1.32m. I was happy with my time there. I've been training hard by running back and forth from Llangollen to Chirk and over the Ponderosa. I also train with Wrexham ACC so I feel well prepared for it."

Glyn is hoping to raise £500 through his fundraiser, which you can donate to here.

He added: "I'm raising money to support the two churches as the cash will go to help with evangelism - spreading the good word of Jesus Christ.

"I run an afterschool Sunday School at St Giles and the donations will go towards arts and crafts books and more there. It has been a blast so far. I have another year before I become Fr Glyn so watch this space.

"Highlights have been meeting the King and leading a prayer group at the House of Commons. Training has been a blast with Fr Jason Bray - there's a brilliant community to be had at St Giles."