A young Muscular Dystrophy sufferer who has completed the Town and Gown fun run seven times will be taking part again this year - this time in memory of a friend who died of the disease.

James Lewis, 18, of Cumnor Road, Farmoor, has been the top fundraiser at the Oxford race for the past two years, last year raising £1,150.

This year, James, who has been wheelchair-bound since he was 15, will be taking part in memory of friend Adam Jay, who lost his battle against the muscle weakening disease last month, at 17.

James's mother, Lynn, will also be taking part, together with some of Adam's family.

Last year, James and his mother completed the 10k event, but this year the group will be doing the 3.5k course.

She said: "Doing the 10k distance was an awful lot of effort. Obviously, it was worthwhile because we raised so much money, but this year we thought we would concentrate on the shorter distance.

"We will be wearing Hawaiian shirts because that is something that connects us with Adam and his family."

James said: "We will be calling ourselves The J Team and hope to raise as much money for research into Muscular Dystrophy as we possibly can. I would like to thank everyone who has sponsored me over the years and hope everyone continues to support us."

James forged a friendship with Adam, from Suffolk, through a Muscular Dystrophy support group. James has the same condition, Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, from which Adam suffered.

Mrs Lewis said: "James's condition means his muscles are gradually weakening and his ability to do things is reduced, so many sufferers end up in a wheelchair at a young age.

"Completing the 10k distance last year took all the effort he possibly had. Anything he does is so much harder for him."

Dad David Lewis also helps organise the race. It takes place on Sunday at 10am starting in Fyfield Road, and is sponsored by the Oxford Mail. It will be started by TV presenter Sue Barker, who is president of the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign.

Since its launch in 1981, the run has raised more than £600,000 for the charity.

To sponsor James, email him at familylewis@tesco.net