A DAD is about to embark on the huge challenge of running a marathon each day, before he starts work.

Gareth Hughes, who works in Newport as director of estates and facilities at Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, will start a 31 marathons in 31 days challenge tomorrow to raise money for a number of charities, including the Sparkle Appeal and the Nevill Hall Children’s Centre Trust.

His own children are on the autistic spectrum and his son has ADHD, so he wanted to raise money for a charity that offers support to children.

Mr Hughes said he is inspired by his children and is looking forward to raising awareness of the charities. He added: “I ran five marathons in five days in five countries two years ago and I thought it would be fun to do a marathon every day before work.

“My first one is this Wednesday and I really can’t wait.”

Mr Hughes will have no support during the challenge and will be running alone on most days.

He will start at 3am so he can fit the challenge around his work schedule and his weekly commute to Cheshire, where he lives.

As well as running solo he has signed up to a few organised marathons to break up the routine and to give him the chance to run with other people. 

When in Newport he will be running different routes to Bannatyne Health Club where he will have an ice bath and some breakfast.

He said: “Doing an unsupported challenge and then going to work after running will mean fatigue is a big issue, as well as taking care of my feet. I finish at the Snowdonia Marathon on October 28 which will be day 31.”

To donate to Mr Hughes’ fundraising challenge visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/Challenge31.