FOR most people running a marathon or half-marathon is a big challenge and one that takes lots of preparation.

But one man from Hinton is aiming to run 67 miles within one day for charity.

David O'Brien, 35, will set off from Richmond, in Greater London, in the early hours of Saturday morning with a target of arriving at Brighton Racecourse under 12 hours later.

He will be taking on the London to Brighton Challenge Run in memory of grandfather Jim Esson who had been in the army with the Royal Signals for over 49 years and received an MBE.

David who works for the MOD has already reached his £400 fundraising target for 'Help for Heroes' but is still collecting extra funds for the charity.

His mother Lesley O'Brien said: "My ex-husband was also in the army so he has known nothing but the army."

Despite only starting running seriously three years ago David has already completed five marathons and two ultra-marathons. One of these included running from Brecon to Cardiff, a distance of 43 miles.

David said: "I have entered many running events to increase my distance running over time, and this will be my ultimate challenge to date."

Despite the longer distance Lesley is confident that her son will conquer the challenge after completing the ultra-marathon distance.

She added: "He is hoping for sub 15 hours and anything quicker than that will be a bonus.

"Some people are walking the route in two days while the elite runners are aiming to complete it in one day as quickly as they can.

"He has been running every day in preparation and after completing the ultra-marathon over 40 miles he felt quite good."

To donate to sponsor David's challenge or to find out more information visit www.justgiving.com/David-O-Brien21.