HE IS preparing to give everyone in the New Forest a surprise.

In the last two years Russell Pearce has become an advocate for rhinos.

After fulfilling his dream to visit South Africa in 2014 the 40-year-old discovered a passion for supporting the animals.

Now the West Totton-based carpenter and business owner is preparing for a major challenge.

He will be taking on the New Forest half marathon –- with a twist.

As everyone does their best to complete the run, Russell will be racing around the course donning a 10 kilo rhino costume.

He’s decided to take on the challenge in a bid to raise awareness and money for international charity Save the Rhinos.

Last year Russell raised more than £1,500 for the organisation when he took on the London Marathon but he wanted to do something “eye-catching” to drum up more support this time round.

He said: “I became really passionate about doing something for these animals a couple of years ago after my trip.

"I spent a lot of time on animal reserves talking with rangers and local people there about the difficulties they face and a their stories were shocking.

"The rangers run around with guns desperately trying to protect the animals from hunters but they are constantly threatened by terrorists and hunters with more money than them overpowering the area.

“It’s heartbreaking but I asked them what I could do being from England to help and they all said, get the word out there, let everyone know, so that’s what I’m trying to do.

"I want to get people’s attention, it shouldn’t matter that this is happening outside of our home country, it’s happening to entire species of animals and they are at risk.

"I’m not just going to stand by and do nothing, if I can try to make a difference then I will.”

Russell will be joining hundreds of others on Sunday, September 11 to take part in the marathon and said it’s been tough training so far.

He added: “The ridiculous thing is I’m actually not a huge fan of running, I did the London Marathon and it nearly killed me.

"It it was so hard but actually I think that makes the fact I’m doing this mean more – I want to try really hard to do something good for these animals.

“I don’t think people will be expecting to see a massive rhino running through the New Forest so I’m hoping that will get people talking –- I just don’t want to scare all the horses.

"But it’s quite a heavy piece of costume which was donated by the charity for me to use.

"I’ve been training with heavy bags on my back so it’s going to be tough but I’m really passionate about doing this.”

To support Russell, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/RustyRhino.