A TALENTED Kenyan runner has arrived in Otley to pursue his dream of competing in the UK.

Jackson Biwott, who is being supported by town resident Jamil Parapia, hopes to improve his performance by taking part in Yorkshire races.

Jamil, a teacher, was asked for help by Jackson after he had forged links with Jamhuri High School in Kenya during a trip there.

So Jamil began sending training plans to the runner, before deciding to help him – with the support of Bingley Grammar School and local businesses – take part in the Yorkshire Marathon.

Jackson, who arrived in the UK on September 24 and ran successfully in the Great North Run just three days later, has been welcomed to Otley by MP Greg Mulholland (Lib Dem, Leeds North West).

Mr Mulholland said: "It was great to welcome Jackson, a talented runner from Kenya, who is here to take part in the Yorkshire Marathon and other races.

"It is wonderful that Jamil, Bingley Grammar School and local businesses have sponsored Jackson and enabled him to come to Yorkshire and the UK to compete. It is a very commendable initiative that not only helps Jackson but will also benefit Kenyan and UK athletics, and build links between the two countries."

Jackson said: "I am so happy to have this opportunity to come to the UK and take part in the Yorkshire Marathon.

"Otley is a very nice town with very nice people, and I hope to make them and my family and friends back in Kenya proud.

"Meeting Greg, the MP, was very special. I am thankful he came to see me."

Jamil added: "As teachers, we try to open doors for young people, but there are people around the world for whom these doors are more limited or, as in the case of Jackson, open later in life.

"I hope he makes the most of this opportunity and uses the races as a springboard for future success, either back in Kenya or in a future return to the UK."

Jackson, who came second in the Great North Run 10K with a time of 30 minutes, 19 seconds, will next race in the Plusnet Yorkshire Marathon in York on October 11.