A COUPLE are taking on a 42-mile Ultra Marathon Challenge to help cut cardiac deaths in the young.

Alison and Neil Bloor, from Menston, are putting themselves to the test in memory of Alison’s younger brother, Peter Waring, the youngest of eight siblings, who died at the age of 50 last year.

They will be taking part in Run to the Castle in Wales on August 20, in aid of the charity Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY).

CRY aims to prevent young sudden cardiac deaths through awareness, screening and research, and supporting affected families. Patrons include James Cracknell, John Barrowman, Pixie Lott and Sir Steven Redgrave.

Alison and Neil said: "It is shocking that someone who can appear healthy and well can suddenly die in this way, as happened with Peter, and the charity does great work to help to prevent such deaths and support those who have suffered a bereavement in this way.

"Run to the castle takes runners and walkers from the coastal village of Aberdyfi up the beautiful coastal path, taking in the seafront at Tywyn, the village of Fairbourne, the famous Fairbourne bridge, Barmouth, to the castle town of Harlech, which is approximately 40 to 42 miles away.

"We have run several marathons previously and numerous half-marathons, however this will be our longest running challenge to date and Alison's first ultra marathon."

To prepare for their latest challenge, they have been following an intensive training schedule, which peaked with a 30-mile run up and down the Dales Way from Ilkley through Burnsall and back.

Visit their justgiving page at justgiving.com/runtothecastle to make a donation.