A ROYAL Marine is running the distance of a double marathon to raise money for a charity close to his heart.

Jack Croker will run 52.4 miles in and around Weymouth on March 13 to raise money for Anorexia and Bulimia Care (ABC), a national eating disorders charity working to increase awareness and understanding of eating disorders through talks, training and campaigning.

The 28-year-old, from Weymouth, ran a marathon for the first time last year and when he finished it he felt he had 'more in the tank'. He then pushed himself to run 40 miles in December, 2020 and now aims to run the double marathon distance next month, which he predicts will take roughly nine hours to complete.

Jack said: "When I did the marathon last year I definitely felt I had more in the tank when I finished, and I felt the same after doing the 40 mile run a couple of months ago.

"I really want to push myself to complete the double marathon distance. In the marines we are taught from day one that you have to get the most out of your body even in the worst conditions so I want to really see how far I can push myself. It will be brutal but I'm excited."

Jack's run will take him from his home in Preston along the seafront, onto the Rodwell Trail, along to Portland, through Wyke Regis, along the Granby Estate, through Southill, through Upwey, through Littlemoor and back into Preston. He will run the route three times.

Jack, who ran a marathon last weekend in preparation for next month's run, is taking on the challenge to raise money for ABC in honour of the people in his life, including his niece and his ex-partner, who have suffered with eating disorders.

Jack said: "My niece is 18-years-old and she has recently been in hospital suffering from an eating disorder so that has inspired me to raise money for ABC.

"I don't think people know enough about the dangers of eating disorders so it is important to try and raise awareness and get people thinking about them."

So far, Jack has raised around £500 and he hopes to raise more than £700 by the time he completes the challenge next month.

Jack added: "I'm really looking forward to doing it now. Bring it on."

To donate to Jack's fundraising page, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/jack-croker2

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