A SCHOOL caretaker who once smoked 80 cigarettes a day is preparing for a record-breaking marathon challenge to help raise cash for charity.

Fighting fit John McDonald, 58, of Queensway, Leyland, is aiming to complete twelve marathons before the end of the year to raise much-needed funds for Derian House Children's Hospice, in Chorley.

So far John has run just one 26-miler -- the British Millennium Marathon held in Leyland in January -- and aims to complete three this month, starting with The Bungay Black Dog Marathon, in Norfolk on Sunday. His next will be the Sheffield Marathon on April 16, ahead of the Shakespeare Marathon in Stratford-Upon-Avon on April 30.

Then in May superfit John hopes to complete the Leeds Marathon on May 14, before taking part in another seven exhausting runs in a bid to complete his goal.

John, who is married with three grown-up children and seven grandchildren, has been jogging since the age of 42 after he quit smoking and put on around five stone in weight. The St Annes Primary School caretaker has been hooked ever since. He took part in a 14-mile run aged 46 and joined the Chorley Harriers running club.

He said: "I stopped smoking when I was 40 and my weight shot up to fifteen stone. I decided I had to do something and joined the 14-mile run after reading an article in the Citizen asking for entries.

"I want to raise as much money as possible for Derian House because it is such as deserving cause and a charity which the Chorley Harriers support. I have the backing of my wife Sarah and all my family who are all really proud of me."

But before undertaking a marathon or strenuous exercise, people should consult their doctor. Shirley Marquis, a stop-smoking specialist based at Blackpool's Victoria Hospital, said: "Mr McDonald has obviously found a way of feeling hit and healthy while other people may find what he is doing rather difficult."

Any individuals or businesses who wish to sponsor John should send cheques to the Derian House Marathon Appeal via 23, Queensway, Leyland, PR5 1AA.

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