A HALF-MARATHON runner has been raising cash to fund research into the disease that nearly killed him.

Stuart Viveash, 27, of Weavers Croft, Melksham was only hours from death after contracting meningitis when he was two.

But thanks to the vigilance of his mother, Gillian, he was rushed to hospital and saved by doctors who noticed symptoms of the meningococcal disease.

Mr Viveash cannot remember much about the incident but was told by his parents about their terrifying rush to hospital.

He decided to run the Bath Half Marathon after his next-door neighbour's cousin Kieran Smith died of meningitis in November.

Kieran, 20, died from meningococcal septicaemia only hours after showing symptoms of the strain.

His family have raised more than £8,000 for the Meningitis Trust and have scores of events planned throughout the year.

Mr Viveash said his £200 sponsorship money would go to the Meningitis Trust.

"My mum and dad told me I went as stiff as a board and the first doctor didn't notice the signs. The second doctor rushed me straight to hospital and I was very lucky to be saved."

He finished the race in one hour 52mins and 58secs.