A SUPERFIT runner must trek more than 100 kilometres in less than 24 hours to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Society.

Paul Foster, 55, of Wordsworth Avenue, Maldon, is gearing up to tackle the notorious Isle of Wight Challenge next month.

The event will see Mr Foster run, jog and walk the full distance of 106 kilometres around the island, taking on tricky terrain including cliff paths, forests and tarmac.

He plans to run nearly half the distance.

Paul is no stranger to tough physical tasks, having completed the London 100 last year and numerous marathons throughout his life, and is always looking to push himself further.

He said: “I’ve been really keen on physical challenges for years, and every time I do another one I’m always looking to go one step up from the last time.

"I’ve done marathons before and managed the London 100 last year, so doing this huge distance in the space of a day felt like the next step to tackle.

“Obviously, I’m not going to be able to run all of it, some of the serious runners do, but I’m pushing for a 50-50 split of running and walking.”

Paul will be one of 2,000 adventurers who will go past the famous Needles, to Cowes at half way, then around back to base camp.

Paul, a team manager at the Financial Ombudsman Service, will be raising funds for the Alzheimer’s Society.

He has a personal interest in the cause, as his brother-in-law’s father suffered from the disease.

He has set up a fundraising page, which has so far raised £200.

Paul said: “The Alzheimer’s Society is very personal to me and my family, as they did such great work in helping my brother-in-law’s father when he suffered from it.

“With these events and challenges having a person investment in the cause really helps drive you to do well.

“My brother-in-law jumped out of a plane for them. I’m not brave enough for that, but I know how to physically push myself for the cause.

"I’ve started vigorous training in the last couple of weeks, aiming to get up to 30 miles worth of running in one session, as that will be the distance I’ll cover on the day of the challenge.

"I’m at 20 at the moment, so I’m not too far off. It’ll be a tough but rewarding challenge if I can pull it off.”

The Isle of Wight Challenge starts on April 29.

To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/PAUL-FOSTER37.