JASON Griffiths could claim to have been given a government seal of approval ahead of his attempts to run this year's London Marathon.

It follows a chance meeting in a shared taxi cab ride with health secretary Jeremy Hunt.

Kingswinford man Jason, who works as a link officer with Dudley CVS at the Beacon Centre, in Sedgley, explained: "I'd attended an NHS Conference in Manchester. I was outside with a colleague waiting for a taxi to take us back to Manchester train station.

"There were two people behind us waiting to go to the same place, so my colleague asked if they'd like to share the taxi with us.

"I had no idea until they got in that it was Jeremy Hunt and one of his aides going back to Westminster.

"I told him about my intention to run the London Marathon and as a result, he has sponsored me for £25 and sent a good luck message on my Facebook page.

"I have to admit he was very affable and it was kind of him to sponsor me."

Jason added: "I didn't dare say at the time that I'm a Labour Party supporter - but I'll take anyone's money!”

The 35-year-old agreed to take part in the London Marathon after a drinking session at Stourbridge pub The Duke William where he was challenged by tennis partner Richard Waldron, the pair both play for Wollaston Tennis Club.

Jason will also be attempting to raise funds for Age UK.

He said: "I work with a number of GP practices across the borough and I help people obtain access to services.

"During my job, I come across many lonely and isolated people, so Age UK seemed an obvious choice. I approached them and asked if I could represent them and they agreed.

"I've raised almost £1500 so far and I'd love to reach £2,000.

"I'm not a runner, but I've been busy building up the miles since and I've already completed a half marathon in under two hours.

"The idea was to race against Richard. But he's since run a 10km race and realised the brashness of his challenge, so he won't be running!”

To support Jason and donate towards Age UK, visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/jgriffiths