A BRIDGWATER man has turned the 12 days of Christmas into a gruelling endurance challenge to help raise money for charity.

Bridgwater’s Wayne Byles, who previously hit the headlines setting up the Canoeing For A Cure challenge, decided to create a fresh new challenge to raise funds for Brain Tumour Research.

Between December 20 and New Year’s Eve, Wayne tackled the equivalent of 12 half-marathons in 12 days, running a staggering 157.2 miles.

SSgt Byles, of the 32 Regiment Royal Artillery, completed the runs at two locations, in Bridgwater and Larkhill in Wiltshire.

He said: “Back in my early 20’s I loved to run and really enjoyed running at long distance.

“Having previously ran a couple of half marathons and an ultra marathon of 30 miles I knew I’d be comfortable with the distance but wasn’t certain I could run consecutively for 12 days.”

Each day, including on Christmas Day, Wayne was joined by a guest runner.

“They had varying physical abilities,” SSgt Byles said.

“Some were super fit, others were of average fitness and had not done a half-marathon before.

“Thankfully the weather was very kind to us throughout. It was tough physically because of the time on my feet each day.

“The main motivation was the constant kind words and messages I received throughout the challenge.”

SSgt Byles says he will continue raising money for Brain Tumour Research as long as he is physically able to.

“I do it in support of love ones currently battling this awful illness and in memory of friends who lost their fight.”

To date Wayne has raised more than £3,730 for the cause and hopes that total will still increase. To donate visit .justgiving.com/fundraising/waynes12daysofchristmas.