A charity is thanking a council chief for pounding the streets of Weymouth to support the cause.

People First Dorset was thrilled to have Matt Prosser, the incoming Chief Executive of Dorset Council, run the Weymouth Half Marathon to raise funds for the charity.

People First Dorset supports people with learning disabilities to speak up and have their voices heard, to become more independent and to be included in community life. People with learning disabilities are involved in running the charity on every level – from board and management committee to staff and volunteers.

Mr Prosser said: “It was great to be able to take part in the recent Weymouth half-marathon, but also to raise some support for the excellent work of People First Dorset. They do such fantastic work with fabulous people - it made all the training and the sore legs the day after worthwhile."

He ran the course, which takes in Weymouth Bay, Portland Harbour and the Rodwell Trail in 1 hour 54 minutes, an average of just 8.7 minutes a mile.

William, who writes the Dorset Echo Our View column every Tuesday said: “It’s great to have Matt supporting us."

He added: "The Friendship Club at People First Dorset changed my life. Before I had no friends and now I have lots. I am also doing things I would never have dreamt of, and am much healthier. Having a learning disability means me, and most of my friends, need continued support.”

People First Dorset relies on grants and donations to deliver its work and every bit helps. It’s not too late to still donate to Mr Prosser's page. Visit the Local Giving website, and search for People First Dorset.

For more information about People First Dorset visit peoplefirstdorset.org.uk