A SELF-PROFESSED couch potato who has become an elite athlete is taking part in the Bupa Great Birmingham Run.

Steve Way came 10th for England in the Commonwealth Games marathon this year - but just seven years ago he weighed more than 16st.

Mr Way, now aged 40, gave up a 20 cigarettes a day habit and took up running to get fit and lose weight.

Seven months after that move, the Dorset resident completed the London Marathon in 2:35.26 and finished in 100th place.

He has issued advice to amateur runners taking part in the Great Birmingham Run.

Mr Way said: “My advice to anybody that’s stepping up to the half marathon distance for the first time is to get some consistency to their training; if you’ve committed to running two or three times a week, stick to it; enjoy yourself on the day and don’t go off too fast.

“The atmosphere at a Great Run is fantastic, and it’s so inclusive – from the elite runners at the front to the charity runners and first timers, it’s always a special day.”

Organisers are expecting a record field of more than 20,000 runners for the event on Sunday, October 19 and entry closes in the next 10 days.

The Great Birmingham Run is the second biggest half marathon in the UK and includes events for children aged from three to 16.

To register visit greatrun.org/birmingham.