Dads take on 'insane' 90-mile run for sick kids

Two dads inspired by the kindness of a hospital during their children's health struggles have pledged to run the entire length of a county's coastline in 24 hours.

James Askew, 34, and Will Shreeve, 35, will set off on their 90-mile (145km) run from Snettisham in Norfolk at 18:00 BST on Thursday and head south towards Hopton-on-Sea, near Great Yarmouth.

The pair said they wanted to raise money for London's Great Ormond Street Hospital after being impressed by the way staff cared for parents as well as children.

"It's going to be tough, but you've got to do something that's hard and challenging in order to raise money," said Mr Shreeve.

Mr Askew's son, Alexander, now 10, was treated by kidney specialists at the hospital during his early childhood, while Mr Shreeve's four-year-old daughter, India, had been a regular patient and was eventually diagnosed with a rare syndrome.

"She is thriving and still under Great Ormond Street and that is my motivation," said Mr Shreeve.

"I'm not doing it just for India, but for all children.

"Great Ormond Street is incredible - it's normally quite new to parents and they're worried, but the staff there are just so caring."

Mr Shreeve said although he did not take much persuading to join his friend, he thought the run - part of which they will be doing at night - was "insane".

They will be joined by other runners at Hunstanton, Sheringham, Cromer and Caister, but have urged as many people as possible to join them as they weave their way along the coast.

"We want anyone to come out and keep us kicking along and bring us food and jelly babies," joked Mr Askew.

"We will definitely finish it - we'll drag each other along."

Mr Askew said the pair would end their challenge a stone's throw from a pub, where the celebrations would include them "sitting down".

The pair have said they aim to raise £1,000 for the hospital's charity over the next year.

The coastal run will be their second fundraising event. The first was taking part in Run Norwich earlier this month.

Everyone who has donated to their online fundraiser can suggest a feat for them to attempt.

A wrestling match, a TV show appearance and an eating challenge are all in the pipeline.

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