A TEACHER from Colden Common is running five marathons in five days for charity this week, taking a rather unique course.

Joe Riley, 26, of New Road, is taking on the mammoth five marathons for Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY), a charity that helps those affected by Sudden Arrhythmic Death Syndrome.

The English teacher will begin each day at one of his favourite pubs in Winchester, but not to kick back and enjoy the Easter holidays, but as a starting point as he embarks on the course that takes him through each of the five city gates.

The first, on Wednesday April 16, is St James’ Tavern, Thursday The Black Boy, Friday The Eclipse Inn, Saturday The Wykeham Arms, and Sunday from The Square Brewery in Petersfield to The Bishop on the Bridge in Winchester.

It comes after the death of Alex Watley, who in 2011 at the age of 23, passed away.

They knew each other through Peter Symonds College.

Mr Riley said: “I think the thing that I have been trying to say to people is that I have not been personally affected by the syndrome, but I know a lot of people that have and Alex is just one of many young people that passed away that didn’t necessarily have to.

“I would love to get as many people on board to support this great cause as possible.”

This isn’t the first time Joe has attempted such a mammoth feat - in July last year he completed four marathons in four days and raised £800 for CRY.

“I aim to continue to raise funds and awareness for and about this cause. The charity does a huge amount for those who have been affected by SADs and they’re a charity I’m proud to put my legs through hell for,” he said.

To make a donation go to justgiving.com/5in5jr.