AN extreme runner from Kidderminster is preparing for a record-breaking 24-hour charity run dressed as Santa Claus.

Ex-marine Shaun Marshall, 45, will take on the challenging run to raise funds for Kemp Hospice as part of their annual Santa Fun Run at Brinton's Park.

Instead of running 10k along the fun run route in the quickest time, he plans to run the course non-stop for 24 hours, starting midday on Saturday December 1, and aims to cross the finish line with the rest of the fundraising Santa’s the following day.

Shaun said: "I have previously raised money for Kemp and have completed 4 Ironman triathlons. Recently in May I raised £845 for Kemp by taking part in the Enduroman 100 ultra mile run where I came first, in 23 hours 45 minutes."

"I have decided to challenge myself again raising valuable money for Kemp by taking part in their Santa Fun Run.

"I will start on Saturday December 1 and aim to run for 24 hours so I can finish with the other Santa runners on Sunday 2.

"Sometimes you need the 'average Joe' to go out and raise, and Kemp is such a valuable place for people to go to.

"My family have used their services in the past."

KEMP Event Fundraiser Shelley Stanley said: Shaun is such a wonderful supporter of our work and he has personally raised thousands of pounds for us, every penny making a real difference to people’s lives.

"We’re blown away by his Super Santa challenge and his commitment to KEMP.”

People can donate to Shaun's JustGiving page via https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/shaun-marshall12