The 65-year-old managing director of Lindo's is to take part in a 62-mile race — which he hopes to run in 13 hours — to raise money for diabetes.

Giorgio Zanol made the announcement when he revealed a record amount in pledges from the annual Lindo's to Lindo's run and walk — which raised $25,000 for the Bermuda Diabetes Association (BDA).

And as well as the pledges, the Mid-Atlantic Athletic Club (MAAC), which is the event's organising body, made an additional donation of $9,000 to the charity.

The race started in 1990 with 500 people, but when it took place on March 11 — with the theme 'De-Feet Diabetes' — there were 1,200 people taking part.

Mr. Zanol and MAAC President Lynn Patchett were on hand yesterday, to make the announcement, along with Sarah Burrows who was representing the BDA.

Mr. Zanol, a veteran runner and supporter of charitable causes, said his company was very pleased with the outcome of the efforts.

He also announced, that he is accepting donations toward the Il Passatore, a 100k race in Italy, he will run on May 26 to further benefit the BDA. From Florence to Faenza, the race extends more than 62 miles.

He said: "When a customer in our Devonshire store told me about her nine-year-old daughter's struggle with diabetes, I thought to myself 'why not do something to help?'

"The more I talked with people, the more I learned just how rampant diabetes is here on the Island."

Mrs Patchett praised the efforts of both the sponsors and all of the participants.

"MAAC is proud to be affiliated with this race and we would like to thank our main sponsor Lindo's who have always been there to support us," she said.

"It is my pleasure to present the Diabetes Association with a cheque for $9,000 that was raised in this race through the registration of participants."

BDA Administrator Mrs Burrows added: "We are really pleased to be here today to express our appreciation for Lindo's Family Group of Companies, and for MAAC, for the recent walk that was held."

BDA was formed in 1979 to help support children with type one diabetes and their families.

However, after the prevalence of type two diabetes, the organisation has diversified to address these different needs.

Those interested in sponsoring Mr. Zanol on his run in Italy can contact him at Lindo's Market in Devonshire at 236-5623.