TWO men whose families have been affected by cancer are set to run seven back-to-back marathons in seven days for a Dorset charity.

Chris Helberg and Chris Bryer-Ash will run a total of 183.4 miles in March to raise funds for The Dorset Cancer Care Foundation (DCCF).

Starting at Sandbanks in Poole on March 10, their quest will see the pair travel across Dorset, taking in towns including Dorchester, Wareham, and Sturminster Newton, before finishing on March 16 at Bournemouth Pier.

The duo hopes to raise over £20,000 through their efforts – and have raised more than £15,000 so far.

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The DCCF provides much-needed financial assistance to Dorset residents and their families who suffer financial hardship due to cancer.

Mr Helberg said: “Many people in my family have been affected by cancer. My mum, Eve Went, who is a co-founder of the DCCF, has been through cancer three times.

“She helped set up the charity to help Dorset families suffering intense financial hardship because of the disease.

“I’m constantly amazed by the difference the DCCF makes to so many lives, whether it be covering the cost of a mortgage or rent repayment or transport to and from hospital.

“My friend Chris and I decided we wanted to do something to help the work of the DCCF. Completing this challenge won’t beat cancer, but if we can make a small difference, it’s absolutely worth doing.”

He added: “Training for the challenge is tough but well underway. In one week recently, we ran the equivalent of one marathon completely uphill!

More than £15,000 has been raised so far Picture: JustGiving

“But the thought of raising as much money as possible for those who are suffering is pushing us to keep going so we are fit and ready as possible for the challenge.

“We have launched our JustGiving page, and it has been so inspiring to see money being donated, along with many messages of encouragement. A huge thank you to everyone who has supported us so far.”

Mr Bryer-Ash added: “We are excited to be doing this. We hope even more people will come forward and sponsor us, knowing that every penny we raise will go straight to families here in Dorset who are struggling because of a cancer diagnosis.”

Eve Went, mother of Chris Helberg said: “My first reaction when the boys said what they were planning was one of concern – running seven consecutive marathons in seven days is a feat of endurance for anyone.

“But knowing them both as I do, I have no doubt of their determination, and I am immensely proud and excited to see them achieve this for the DCCF and the local families we help.”

She added: “The increase in the cost of living means that the work of the DCCF has never been so vital in helping local families going through cancer.

“We have given over £750k in non-returnable grants since we started fundraising 10 years ago, but the number of applications for our help are increasing every year.

“We hope people will get behind what the boys are attempting and support them by making any donation they can.”

The runners’ progress can be followed on Instagram: @7marathons7days_

Those wishing to sponsor the pair can search Seven Marathons in 7 Days or click here.