A FUNDRAISING teenager is looking to defy the odds and complete a tough challenge to raise money for a charity fighting to help his condition.

Arran Gill, 16, of Ash Grove, Stoke Poges, is taking on the Brutal 10 Run next month to raise money for Crohn’s and Collitis UK.

The Brutal 10 Run is a 10km run with obstacles and hurdles around the course, covering all terrains including mud and water, and Arran will be taking on the challenge at the Bagshot staging on February 13.

The Burnham Grammar School student was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease two years ago and is eager to take on the challenge.

He said: “It is the first time I have done something like this and I am feeling confident but I don’t know if I have bitten off more than I can chew.”

Crohn’s disease is a condition that causes inflammation of the digestive system or gut. It can affect any part of the gut though the most common area affected is the end of the ileum – the last part of the small intestine – or the colon.

It is one of the two main forms of inflammatory bowel disease and is a chronic condition.

Arran added: “It had a drastic effect at first. I lost a lot of weight and missed three months of school.

“I had to go to Great Ormand Street Hospital twice a week with my dad, it was a big change.

“I had lots of medication and a liquid diet so I could not eat anything for six weeks.”

Arran, who plays as a centre forward for Taplow United, is nearing the end of his GCSEs at the Hogfair Lane school and wants to gain a scholarship to play football with hopes to ultimately head to America to play the sport.

Arran is looking to raise £500 by taking on the challenge, To help Arran raise money for Crohn’s and Collitis UK, visit www.justgiving.com/arrangill-brutal10.