A WORCESTER man is about to set off in what is regarded as one of the most gruelling marathons in the world in aid of charity.

Justin Devereux, of The Hill Avenue, off Bath Road, is taking part in the Everest Mountain Marathon - a 26.2-mile race at an altitude of up to 5,000m.

But even before setting off on this mammoth task, which starts on Monday, the 31-year-old had to trek for a staggering 16 days just to get to the start line near to the base camp of the world's highest peak. He is hoping to complete the course in around six hours.

Mr Devereux is raising money for Nepal School Projects, which raises and allocates funds for development projects in the country's rural areas.

So far, according to his website, he has raised £1,064.97.

Before he flew out to the Himalayan country earlier this month, he told the Worcester News: "Nepal is one of the poorest countries in the world so I want to raise as much money as I can."

"If anyone wants to sponsor me they can make a donation by logging on to www.justgiving. com/justin.

SNOW, ICE AND YAKS AHEAD

The official website for the Everest Mountain Marathon describes what Justin Devereux faces.

There is likely to be snow and ice at the start of the course.

The terrain is described as varied with boulders, grass, small and loose stones, as well as stone staircases, trails through a forest and exposed paths.

Hazards which runners face include narrow suspension bridges and yaks.

Finally, the racecourse is not marked and it is up to each runner to learn the route on the trek up.