A DORCHESTER-born marathon runner, rower and cyclist is taking on a new challenge to raise money for three charities close to his heart.

Gus McKechnie is no stranger to long-distance exercise challenges and he has set himself another one to finish by August 1. He will be completing 30 half marathons on a ski machine, a piece of exercise equipment that involves pulling down on weights, by the beginning of next month to raise money for Weldmar Hospicecare, Rose Road in Southampton, and Wooden Spoon in Fleet.

Gus, 44, who lives in Southampton, has cerebral palsy and has been isolating since lockdown began on March 23. He has not seen any loved ones since then and is patiently waiting until August 1 when the lockdown rules for people who are shielding are eased. So far he has completed 18 of his 30 half marathons and he plans to get the rest done by the time lockdown is paused for the most vulnerable.

Gus said: "Doing this challenge has given me a really positive goal during the lockdown. I haven't seen any friends or family since March 23 which has been difficult. Doing this challenge has really helped because I get into a rhythm when I am doing the exercise which helps clear the mind.

"It is quite tough being on your own and I've found it quite hard to settle down and watch a film or something without getting restless. The challenge has helped me with the loneliness side of things and also with the physical side of things as it lets me expel energy somewhere.

Gus, a customer support coordinator at Ordnance Survey, has set himself the target of raising £500 to split equally across the three charities and has so far raised £265. He added: "£500 split between the three would be good and a great achievement for me. I would really like to give something to the charities that would make a difference to them."

To donate visit https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-display/showROFundraiserPage?userUrl=Gusbus&pageUrl=2