A MARINE from Taunton plans to run a marathon inside his camp in Afghanistan to raise money for Norton Manor Camp-based Royal Marines injured in the conflict.

Mel Melville, 46, who is training members of the Afghan National Army, will complete 19 laps of his compound in a secret location in Afghanistan, along with Army Lance Corporals Danny Garrett and Adam Baker on September 11.

All money raised will go to the 40 Commando Welfare Fund for injured Marines.

Mel’s son, Will, 20, is currently serving with 40 Commando in Sangin – the two recently met up when Mel flew down to spend a couple of days with his son before the latter returned to the UK for a short break.

Mel’s wife, Linda, a classroom assistant at Staplegrove Primary school, said: “We hear of the Marines who have tragically died, but there are a handful of heroes we don’t get to hear about – those who get injured, some quite severely.

“Mel’s raising money to support them and their families and I’m having some posters and sponsorship forms done to let everybody know about his run so he can raise as much money as possible.

The couple’s daughter, Kristina, 22, a staff nurse at Taunton’s Musgrove Park Hospital, is raising money for Help for Heroes, while their other son, Joe, who attends Ladymead Community School, also plans to join the Marines.

“As a family, we’re trying to do our bit for the Marines – they really appreciate all the support they’re getting from the people of Taunton,” said Mrs Melville.

To sponsor Mel, send donations to Mel’s Marathon, Welfare Office, 40 Commando RM, Norton Manor Camp, Taunton TA2 6PF. Cheques should be made payable to Central Bank 40 Commando.