A teenage runner is stepping out to boost the fight against breast cancer.

Sam Clegg is tackling the Great North Run, his first half-marathon, on September 21.

And proceeds from his sponsored effort will go to Breakthrough Breast Cancer, a cause close to Sam's heart.

His mother, Kath, has been undergoing treatment for the disease.

Sam , 17 (pictured above), is a sixth form student at Oakbank School in Keighley -- is already an accomplished runner and a schools cross-country champion.

But he is putting in extra training for the Great North Run.

Kath, from Oldfield, told us: "He has been running for years now but this is his first half-marathon. He is putting in some longer distance training runs in preparation, and is looking forward to the event.

"It is marvellous that he is raising money for Breakthrough Breast Cancer, and he hopes to raise as much as possible through sponsorship.

"I have had chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatment. That has now finished, and I am taking medication and having check-ups every six months. You just get on with life."

Breakthrough Breast Cancer is committed to fighting the disease through research and awareness.

It needs to raise at least £5 million a year to fund its research programme.

Anyone wishing to sponsor Sam can contact him on 01535 645176.