FARNHAM man Elroy Blackwood is taking on The Race to the Kings, a double marathon (53.2miles) in a day, set over the South Downs from Arundel to Winchester, in aid of Farnham ASSIST on Saturday, June 24.

For years Elroy has wanted to do the London Marathon, but hasn’t due to his dislike of long distance running – he is more interested in sprinting, the burst of speed over short distances.

“I’ve run a couple of 10k events for another charity to raise awareness and push myself, but it was both the role of my wife Susie (at Farnham ASSIST) and an episode with my grandfather that got me thinking about going further,” he said.

“I am keen to help support older people after experiencing my grandfather go missing in London. He disappeared for three days in winter time after getting confused when a bus route changed.

“We were desperately searching for him in the vast city and it was a horrible situation and made me realise how vulnerable he and others are, so I can see how supporting older people can have a massive impact on their lives socially and prevent isolation and loneliness.”

Elroy would welcome the public’s support by donating directly at the Farnham ASSIST offices, 7 St Georges Yard, GU9 7LW or online at  mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/elroyblackwood1.