Stourbridge chippy owner takes on his own marathon challenge

Chris Preece, owner of Merchants, in Worcester Street, is running a different race each month in his quest to raise £1,000 for Children with Cancer UK.

So far the marathon man has taken part in the Bristol 10k, the Oxford 10k and the Coventry Half Marathon.

Chris said: “Each month in 2015 I aim to run a race to help raise money for Children with Cancer UK, who support children at Great Ormond Street Hospital, in London.

“I have taken part in many different fundraising challenges over the years but I had never fundraised for a children's charity before.

“I have three kids of my own who are all fit and healthy but there are other people who are not as fortunate as me, so I thought it was time to help them.”

The longest distance Chris has run so far this year is a 20 mile race around Elan Valley in Wales.

He said: “The 20 miles was the hardest thing I have ever done in my life.

“I will be fundraising for the charity at each of my races this year and hope to complete a full marathon by the end of it.”

The Kidderminster resident keeps himself fit for each of his races by running 14 to 18 miles twice a week, as well as participating in kickboxing training.

Next up for Chris is the Blackpool Half Marathon which takes place on Sunday, April 26, followed by a 10k race in Bath, known as the Two Tunnels.

Chris said: “12 races is my target for the year but I would like to do 20. With the training going well hopefully a full marathon should be in my grasp.

“Once I am done in December, I would like to take all the people who have donated to me each month on a trip to Great Ormond Street so they can see what their fundraising has gone towards.

“I set my target at £1,000 but I have already raised just under £750, so hopefully I will smash the target and raise even more money for such a good cause.”

To support Chris in his mammoth challenge and donate to Children with Cancer UK, visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ChrisPreece