A SERVING Royal Marine is attempting to run the 123-mile journey from Bournemouth to Plymouth in under a week this Easter.

James Rowland, 23, from Plymouth, will set out from Bournemouth Square on March 26, running through the likes of Bridport and Chudleigh before completing the final leg of his journey and arriving at Plymouth Hoe on March 31.

The event is raising money for Cancer Research UK, and anyone wishes to join in the challenge along the way is welcome.

James, who also volunteers at various beach cleans and animal shelters, said: “I’ve been told by everyone that it’s a crazy idea but I’m going to do it anyway.

“It’s not going to be at an intense pace. I imagine it to be like Forrest Gump when he just goes off on his run, that kind of chilled atmosphere.

“The more people that join in, the more families and friends will know about it, which means there are more people that are likely to donate.

“I am really fortunate in that I have no one in my family that suffers from Cancer. But it’s in my nature to help people and my main job is keeping fit, so I want to use that for a good cause.”

James has already begun his preparation for the endurance test, and has been running a minimum of ten miles every other day since December.

He added: “I exercise two times a day anyway but I’m now watching what I eat and drink as well.

“I haven’t had any alcohol since New Year’s Eve, which is very hard when you’re surrounded by other soldiers who often want to go to the bar.”

To find out more about James’ run and donate to Cancer Research, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/james-rowland2016.