A KEEN runner from York is set to take on a “gruelling” 48-hour challenge to fundraise for Macmillan Cancer Support - which he works for.

Dave Watson, from Clifton in the city, is no stranger to running. He’s taken part in every Great North Run for the past twenty years, completed every Yorkshire Marathon since it started in 2013 and has a total of 21 marathons under his belt.

However, Dave has decided to set himself a new challenge, all to fundraise for his employer. He will complete the ‘4 x 4 x 48 challenge’, which involves running four miles every four hours for 48 hours over the May bank holiday weekend.

Dave, 58, said: “Whilst a four-mile run isn’t a huge distance it’s the number and frequency of the four mile runs required that make it so physically and mentally challenging.

“I have to admit I’m not looking forward to the 3am runs, the idea of just getting off to sleep then having to go for a late night four-mile run is daunting - but I love a challenge.”

Mr Watson, who works as a grants officer for Macmillan, set himself the challenge as part of a series of runs leading up to the Virgin Money London Marathon in October. Dave secured a place and will be raising funds for the charity.

Dave went on to say: “Macmillan Cancer Support is a cause close to my heart, not just because I work for them, but because I have witnessed the devastating impact of a cancer diagnosis following the death of my father from leukaemia and the equally overwhelming impact on my sister following her cancer diagnosis.

“Seeing my family go through cancer brought the work of Macmillan much closer to home.”

To support Dave’s fundraiser, visit: https://bit.ly/3t1sTgN

Anyone diagnosed with cancer can contact the Macmillan Support Line seven days a week on 0808 808 00 00 or visit the Macmillan website.