Surrey

Paul Blizzard is aiming to run over 180 miles in a week

A man from Farnham is to run seven marathons in seven days in seven different countries to raise money for charity.

Paul Blizzard, 34, has set himself a target of raising £10,000 for the Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice.

He has been inspired by the treatment given by staff for his mother-in-law Pat, who passed away last summer.

"The Hospice gave fantastic support to her and the family and I just want to give something back," he told BBC Surrey.

"One nurse walked two miles in 18 inches of snow to bring her some morphine when she ran out.

"We had to show our support for the support they showed us."

The Hospice receives just under 16 per cent of its funding from the government, but it costs over £10,000 a day to offer their medical care and support.

Paul will begin his challenge in Italy on Saturday, 26 March. He will then run marathons in Switzerland, Germany, Luxembourg, Belgium and France.

Paul has taken inspiration from comedian Eddie Izzard

His final marathon will start and finish at the Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice in Farnham.

"It has been a nightmare logistically," he continued. "I'm very inspired by how Eddie Izzard did it.

"He did 50-odd marathons with no training. He just woke up one day and said 'I'm going to do it."

Paul has been running 50 miles a week in preparation for the marathons, but was banned from running for three weeks by his specialist last month after having problems with his back and knees.

"I class myself as a runner, but not a very good one," he added.

"I've never run a marathon before as there's too much training involved.

"Even if I've got to walk around 7 marathons due to my knee and back, I'll still do it. It's not an issue."

All of the funds Paul raises will go directly to charity. If you want to sponsor him, please click here

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