KAISER Chiefs musician and former St Mary’s Menston pupil Nick Baines is on his marks and getting set to tackle the Great North Run for a leading North East charity, but admits it will be tinged with sadness after losing his dad this summer.

Nick, better known to music fans as ‘Peanut’, has become a regular competitor in the famous half-marathon, and is preparing to pull on his running shoes for the third year in a succession on Sunday, September 9.

Once again set to raise vital funds for the Graham Wylie Foundation, Peanut has revealed this year’s effort will be harder than ever without dad Alan supporting him.

Newcastle born and bred Alan lost his battle against a glioblastoma brain tumour in June.

“It’s going to be a very sad year and I did think twice about doing it but I love the North East and I love coming to Newcastle and the Graham Wylie Foundation is such a fantastic cause,” he said.

Since his first encounter with the Great North Run back in 2016, Peanut admits running has now become one of his favourite ways to unwind.

“I’ve really got the running bug now and I find it’s just a great way to get into a positive head space,” he said. “It’s also something I can do a lot of when we’re on tour.

“If we’re staying in a hotel, it’s great for me as I can just put on my shoes and get going. Ricky Wilson is a keen runner too, although we don’t run together – he’s far too competitive.”

Peanut will be joined by Jersey Boys star Ryan Molloy and North comedian and Viz creator Simon Donald, who will also run to raise funds for the Graham Wylie Foundation.

Graham Wylie is thrilled that the stars have once again pledged their support, saying: “We are always touched by the generosity of anyone who undertakes the Great North Run on our behalf, and it’s wonderful to hear that Peanut, Ryan and also Simon Donald are stepping up again this year.

“All three have been incredibly supportive in the last few years and we hear they are all keen to beat their fundraising totals this year. We are very grateful for their help and wish them all the best for the event.”

Fans can sponsor Peanut by visiting https://www.justgiving.com/Nicholas-Baines2 or by texting PEANUT to 70300 to donate £3.

The Graham Wylie Foundation was set up in 2016 by trailblazing entrepreneur and founder of Sage, Graham Wylie. It is one of just a handful of charities in the world which gives 100 per cent of its donations directly to good causes, with Graham himself meeting all administration and staff costs.

For further information on the Graham Wylie Foundation visit http://grahamwyliefoundation.org.uk/