A London Marathon runner has already raised about �4,000 for charity before he has even taken a step thanks to the deep pockets of generous auction bidders.

Richard Dade, of Augustus Hare Drive in Earlham, is running the gruelling race next weekend for the Katie Piper Foundation.

To kick-start his fundraising, the 41-year-old organised a charity auction held at Hethersett Village Hall on Saturday night where bidders had the chance to get their hands on an array of lots donated by local companies, including signed football shirts, London theatre tickets and even a new front door.

The money raised will be donated to the foundation which aims to launch a burns and scar management centre and rehabilitation clinic.

The charity was founded by aspiring model and TV presenter Katie Piper who survived an attack in March 2008 when sulphuric acid was thrown in her face.

Mr Dade, who coaches the Hethersett Athletic u12s football team, said more than 120 people had attended the auction.

'We raised about �4,000 which makes it a really good night. The original target was �3,000 so we've smashed through that and there's still sponsorship money to come on top of that,' he said.

The marathon, which takes place next Sunday, will be the fifth time Mr Dade has run the famed course. His previous efforts have raised more than �12,000 for cancer charities.

He said: 'I've done my last run now before the marathon. I'm not nervous. I think I know what to expect by now.'

To sponsor Mr Dade, visit www.justgiving.com/Richard-Dade1

For more information on the Katie Piper Foundation, visit www.katiepiperfoundation.org.uk