Runners' final push in seven marathons challenge

A group of runners who embarked on seven marathons in seven days in Dorset are due to complete their challenge later.

Chris Helberg and Chris Bryer-Ash started the challenge on Monday, raising money for Dorset Cancer Care Foundation (DCCF), which supports cancer patients.

But on the fourth day, Mr Bryer-Ash developed a suspected viral infection and spent Thursday night in Poole Hospital.

His father, Rich Bryer-Ash, 59, has been running in his son's place, along with DCCF chairman Chris Thomas.

Mr Bryer-Ash's 94-year-old grandmother also put in a shift, walking the final leg of Friday's marathon.

It is hoped Mr Bryer-Ash, who is now recovering, will reunite with the team at the finish line at Bournemouth Pier on Sunday afternoon when they will be joined by Bournemouth mayor George Farquar.

The childhood friends have already raised about £70,000 for DCCF.

Ahead of the challenge on Monday, Mr Helberg said: "They [the charity] support people with financial hardship.

"When you are going through cancer, you shouldn't be worrying about how you pay your mortgage or get to your hospital appointment.

"They take all these worries away from you."

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