Dad"s marathon mission for kids (From Barry And District News)

Dad"s marathon mission for kids

A BARRY policeman who has never run a marathon in his life is preparing to take on what has been dubbed as "the toughest foot-race on Earth" - five marathons in seven days in the blistering heat of the Sahara desert.

But Paul Hopkins will have one thing on his mind as he fights his way across gravelly surfaces and the great Moroccan dunes in temperatures reaching up to 120 Fahrenheit - generating as much money as he can for children's hospice, Ty Hafan.

Paul, aged 36, has been accepted as a team member to take part in this April's 151-mile Marathon Des Sables.

The dad-of-one said: "I have been aware of the event for some time and it's been something I've wanted to do. But I've never got round to it because of family and work commitments.

"I've done some long-distance running, but never a conventional marathon.

"I've been training for a little while, but I'm aware that it's not a race.

"I just like the challenge element of it, and I'm aiming to raise as much money as I can for the local children's charity, Ty Hafan."

Paul will have to carry everything he needs for the duration of the run on his back - including food, clothes, a medical kit and a sleeping bag.

Paul funded his own 2,500 entry fee.

He has already been sponsored by the local WILD women's group (Women in Lively Debate), who pledged the money they would have spent if they had sent each other Christmas cards.

If you would like to support Paul's feat of endurance, please contact Sue Koopes of WILD on 01446 735290, or Ty Hafan, c/o 75 Porth-y-Castell, Barry CF62 6QE.

Donations can also be deposited in a collection box at Silver Star Decorating and DIY Centre on Barry Waterfront.

For more information about the Marathon Des Sables please visit www.saharamarathon.co.uk