They're the chess mates set to play the game throughout a charity 10k at next month's ABP Southampton Marathon. 

Kevin Sawers, from Bitterne, has found a fellow runner and chess enthusiast to join him in aid of a city charity, thanks to the Daily Echo. 

The 47-year-old will be joined by Nick Wilson, 46, after he spotted our appeal.

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Together they will play chess while running in aid of Communicare, which helps vulnerable, isolated people in Southampton. 

Kevin, who is a member of Hedge End Running Club, said: "Last month, I put out a plea in the Echo for a partner, so I could bring running together with one of my other favourite pastimes, playing chess.

"After seeing the coverage, Nick, who has been running for 27-years and is a friend who lives near us, got in touch to offer to partner with me to run and play chess at the same time.

"We’re now on a mission together to raise as much money as possible for Communicare."

The pair can be sponsored at justgiving.com/campaign/communicaremarathon25

The 10th anniversary ABP Southampton Marathon, which encompasses a 5k, 10km, half marathon and full marathon, takes place on Sunday, April 6.

Communicare is still looking for runners and walkers to join its team. 

To download the registration form, visit communicareinsouthampton.org.uk/marathon-2025/

Communicare manager Annie Clewlow added: "We’re sure Kevin and Nick will delight the watching crowds on the day and help raise vital awareness and money for us in the process.

"The current economic climate means we need fundraising like this more than ever before. Every penny we receive goes towards making someone’s life better.

"We’re here to help people live their best lives, rather than to just exist. The money raised will help support our multi-generational initiatives befriending people in communities city-wide, through our Good Neighbours Network. Our mission is to eradicate loneliness and isolation, which potentially represents a significant health risk in all age groups."

Communicare is currently supporting more than 750 individuals/families through tasks including, befriending, transport for appointments and assistance with shopping and always needs more donations and volunteers to help with its work.