A FATHER and son will be taking a step back in time when they take on a 10km run in the grounds of Downton Abbey.

Alan Scott, from Evesham and his son Simon, will line up alongside hundreds of other runners in the grounds of Highclere Castle in Newbury, Berkshire, which was made famous by the popular TV drama and its inhabitants.

But 63-year-old Alan and son Simon, 39, are not heading to Downton on Sunday, May 11, for the sight seeing but to raise money for Parkinson's UK, a charity close to their hearts.

In September 2012 Alan, who works as a porter at Evesham Community Hospital, was diagnosed with Parkinson's.

He said: "In April 2012 I noticed I had a slight hand tremor so I visited my GP. Following various tests, he made an appointment for me to see a neurologist and a diagnosis of Parkinson's was confirmed.

"When Simon and I visit we usually run 10k together which I refer to, not as a fun run, but a father and son run.

"I enjoy running and as a bonus, my hand doesn't tremor as much and it gives me a bit of peace for a short while."

Alan and his son decided to take part in the run to raise awareness of the disease and raise vital money for research into a cure for the disease.

"I will be running Highclere for Parkinson’s UK to raise awareness, as I don’t think enough people know about the condition and how it affects people and their families," he added.

"We are really looking forward to the event. I hope that the funds my son and I raise will allow the charity to continue with its vital research work to find a cure."

On the day of the event there will be a familiar face at Downton as actor Laura Carmichael, best known for her role as Lady Edith Crawley, will be officially starting the run and later presenting the fastest boy and girl and the fastest male and female with their winners’ medals and signed Downton Abbey merchandise.

For more information on the event or to sign up visit parkinsons.org.uk/highclere or call 020 7932 1356.