THE hunt is on to find people to take part in a ‘Bible Marathon’.

Acting Dean at Winchester Cathedral, Canon Roly Riem is looking for people to read the holy book from cover-to-cover in an around-the-clock four-day readathon. He believes it takes 75 hours to recite the 66 books.

Dr Riem said: “The readings will be from 10am to 3pm in the cathedral; then overnight from 3pm to 10am in the cathedral’s Wessex Learning Centre. Readers in the small hours are particularly welcome.”

“The marathon will be a challenge to manage and for all those taking part, as we gradually progress from the opening book of Genesis to the final book of Revelation.We hope to involve schools, churches and charities in this biblical adventure.”

Already there has been a great response from the church community in Winchester and further afield with the Friends of the Cathedral, The Pilgrims’ School and others who are donating a bible to reader.

Meanwhile local celebrities Sally Taylor and Bruce Parker are also getting involved.

The reading is from September 7 to 10 and organisers ask for a time-slot of no less than 10 minutes for adults and five for children.

Participants are invited to contribute a minimum of £30 for adults or £10 for children, through sponsorship or donation.

Any proceeds will help the Cathedral to complete its appeal, which includes the conservation and re-display of the 12th Century Winchester Bible.

To find out more v For more details visit: deanspa@winchestercathedral.org.uk