A YORK GP is running 2012 miles in 2012 as part of a fundraising mission to help people suffering from famine in Africa.

Dr Lesley Hayward, of Haxby, is taking part in five fundraising events this year in a bid to raise funds for the International Medical Corps which provides nutrition, healthcare, vaccinations and clean water to families who have lost everything.

The events include the 26-mile Rome Marathon – which Dr Haywood took part in March, the Yorkshire Three Peak Challenge this month, the Northumberland Coastal run next month, the Jane Tomlinson York 10k in August, and the 138-mile Coast to Coast cycle challenge also in August.

She said: “It started at the beginning of the year when I decided to do something for charity and I couldn’t decide which event to do – so I thought I would do them all.

“I thought – if you are trying to raise money you have to do something to attract peoples’ attention.”

The 51-year-old, who has previously completed fundraising efforts for Haiti and raised more than £3,000 for the cause, said: “I am a GP so I wanted to raise money for a medical charity.

“I like what the International Medical Corps does to provide treatment and medicine. They do not just put money into a country that can then disappear into its pockets. You can also specify a priority where you money goes – I chose famine in Africa.

“It is a good charity and a small amount of money goes a long way.”

Dr Hayward, who runs and cycles several times a week to keep her fitness at peak levels ahead of each event, said the 138-mile Coast to Coast cycle event would pose the biggest challenge.

She said: “I am just an ordinary person – I am not a super athlete – just a normal person who likes exercise,”

Dr Hayward hopes to raise £2,000 in total, having raised £660 to date. To sponsor her, visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/lesleyhayward