Mellis runner preparing to take on 200-mile challenge for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices in memory of Callum Doe

A steely runner is striding out of his comfort zone and embarking on a monster 200-mile challenge in aid of East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (Each).

Super-fit Alan Carter is taking on the mission in memory of Callum Doe, the son of a friend who died in August 2020.

He plans to run 50 miles a day for four days, getting under way on September 15.

His epic journey starts from his home in Mellis, before joining the Peddars Way in Knettishall and running to Hunstanton.

There, he will follow the North Norfolk Coastal Path around the coast to Great Yarmouth, before returning to Mellis along the Angles Way.

“After that, I’ll fall into bed and remain in the recovery position for about 12 hours, probably more,” joked the 46-year-old.

“This challenge is a fair bit beyond my comfort zone and I’m not going to be too strict in terms of rules.

“It’s about raising money for charity and it doesn’t really matter how I do it.

“Getting round will be hard enough and it’ll be particularly tough at the start of each day.

“It’ll be a case of pigeon steps, walking and then breaking into a run.

“It makes me nervous to think about it but I know I’ll be pleased with myself if I complete it.

“It would be embarrassing to have sponsors and not finish the whole run.”

Mr Carter is a close friend of Callum’s dad, Ian Doe, who himself took on a 400-mile bike ride from Wales to Lowestoft earlier this year in memory of his son.

Thirteen-year-old Callum was diagnosed with an aggressive grade four brain tumour on Christmas Eve 2018.

He had an operation to remove as much of it as safely possible, in addition to two rounds of radiotherapy, but died at Each in Framingham Earl, in August 2020.

To donate to the fundraiser, click here.