A REFUGEE who fled from war-torn Syria is running a half marathon to give back to a Reading charity that helped him.

Hussam Allahham was a surgeon in Syria before being forced to flee to the UK during the Syrian Civil War.

Hussam now works as a caseworker at Reading Refugee Support Group (RRSG) , helping give advice and support to other refugees.

He is now working hard to become a doctor for the NHS whilst also training for the London Landmarks Half Marathon, running for RRSG.

He said: "Running had never been an option for me due to the hard life circumstances and PTSD. I was at the risk of being diabetic.

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"On January this year I tried to run for the first time and I could not run more than few yards. Now, I lost over 15 Kg of my weight and looking forward to participating in this great event.

"Reading Refugee Support Group help refugees and asylum seekers to rebuild their lives in Berkshire.

"Each year, they help hundreds of people from more than fifty countries who have escaped from war, violence and persecution.

"Many have been victims of human trafficking, torture and modern slavery. They provide social activities, legal advice, education and practical support to help people get back on their feet."

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Hussam provides refugees and asylum seekers in Reading with advice and support week in, week out.

The charity said: "Hussam is an inspiration. We’re incredibly proud of our team of six runners taking on London Landmarks Half Marathon on Sunday 1st August to raise money for refugees and asylum seekers in Berkshire!

"For months now, the team have been putting in the hard work, hitting the street and running miles rain or shine to help refugees to rebuild their lives.

"Refugees and asylum seekers have been hit hard by COVID, but every penny our amazing runners raise helps to fund free legal advice, social activities, English classes and mental health support for families and individuals in need across Berkshire."

Visit justgiving.com/fundraising/hussam-allahham to donate