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Martin with his mum Ann

Martin, aged 20 from Bilbrook, is embarking on the mammoth journey in honour of his mum Ann, who passed away from cancer in February 2008.

"Last summer my daughter Anna Louise was born," said Martin. "My mum was a strong Catholic who believed in 'life for a life' – the idea that when someone is born another person has to go to make way.

"Two weeks after the birth, mum was diagnosed with cancer. She was only given until the end of the year but battled on until the February. It was a devastating time for us all."

Ann was cremated in her native Glasgow, which Martin says served as inspiration for his idea.

Start: New Street, Birmingham

"My family have routes in Scotland so we travelled up there to have mum cremated. Given the way that cancer has affected our lives – and the lives of many others – I decided to do something to raise money and awareness."

Martin aims to run the 293 miles from Birmingham to Glasgow in a three day period. Day one will see him set off at 8am from Birmingham New Street station.

"The challenge is to run 92 miles in the first day through Walsall, Stafford, Newcastle-Under-Lyme and Warrington, before arriving in Wigan, where I will stay the night

"On Tuesday, I will begin again at 8am, this time running 106 miles through Preston, Lancaster and Kendal before staying in Carlisle for the night. My aim is to arrive in Glasgow at about 6pm on Wednesday 12th November, having run the final 95 miles."

Carlisle - by the 2nd night

Martin's family have a history of being keen athletes - both his dad and grandad ran for the army and Martin himself has experience in marathons

"The most I've ever run before in one go 26 miles. I don't think the first day will be too much of a problem; it's second day I'm not looking forward to because the first day will have taken its toll.

"At the moment, I'm training in the gym for three to four hours every two days on the treadmill and doing weight training on my legs. I'm nervous yet anxious to start!"

Martin, who is a full time carer for his wife Nicole who has epilepsy, will be followed for part of the journey by his uncle Mark, who'll be in a car.

End: Glasgow

"When I told my family I was going to do this they thought I was a bit mad!" he laughs.

"I know if I put my mind to it I will do it. The run is for a good cause and I am determined. I want to do it in the three days but if I have to extend it I will. November 13th is my sister's birthday so I have to be back by then!"

Martin McLeod begins his three day run at 8am on Monday 10th November, setting off from Birmingham New Street Station.

For more information, including sponsorship details, click the link below: