A Pembrokeshire leisure centre worker has embarked on a unique running challenge for the new year.

Dan Mumford, duty officer at Tenby Leisure Centre, aims to run at least 2,015 miles in 2015 for charity.

With the support of his family and friends, Dan will tot up the mileage in a series of gruelling distance events spread across the course of the year.

And it will all be in aid of local mental health charity, Pembrokeshire Mind.

The 31-year-old, who suffered from depression two years ago, said running had helped him with his own health problems and he wanted to spread the message about how beneficial it could be.

"I run for my own mental health and its part of the reason why I have embarked on this project," he said.

"While some people go to church and others go to the pub, I go running. It's a chance for me to think about stuff as well as find out what my own body is capable of."

He said running had allowed him to come off medication and made him understand his own mental health better.

"I also want to encourage others to get active," he said.

"It shows that there are other options for treating mental health issues and although it might not be for everyone, I'm sure it can help many people."

Dan, who was brought up in Pembroke and now lives in Carew with his family, got into leisure work after taking a training scheme at Haverfordwest sports centre.

A keen sportsman and former rugby player, he took up running years ago, embarking on his first race - a half marathon - two years ago.

His next event as part of his Mumford and Runs project will be an ultra marathon - 40 miles - in Llanelli next month, while the Greater Manchester Marathon is also in his sights.

He trains on the roads around his home often early in the mornings so as not to interfere in family life.

And he's also helped set up a running club in Carew, with around 40 members of all abilities meeting weekly.

"The beauty of running is that you need no specialist equipment and you can do it whenever you want," he said.

"It also doesn't matter how good you are... any distance or speed will make you feel good."

His 2015 project has the backing of Pembrokeshire Leisure - Pembrokeshire County Council's leisure service - which will be putting up posters and collection boxes in leisure centres across the county.

Pembrokeshire leisure services manager, Chris Payne, praised Dan for his initiative.

"It's fantastic. He has shown that sport and physical activity can really change people's lives for the better. I wish him the very best in this and any future initiatives he may be involved in."

For more information about Mumford and Runs log onto http://www.facebook/mumfordruns">www.facebook/mumfordruns