TOTTINGTON runner is set to take part in what is considered to be the hardest and highest marathon in the world.

Peter Fielding, 56, successfully applied for one of 75 places designated for the race.

He now faces weeks of intensive training and charity fund-raising before the start of the event on November 26.

In order to reach the starting line competitors will have to trek close to Everest Base Camp at 5,184 metres above sea level.

This will involve travelling through the Himalayan foothills in Nepal for 16 days, camping out in temperatures as low as -20 degrees Celsius.

Geoff, of Victoria Road, is a veteran fell runner and has previously taken part in the famous Sahara Marathon in the Morrocan Desert, finishing 52nd out of 200 competitors.

All the sponsorship money he raises he aims to split evenly between the Everest Marathon fund, a charity supporting development projects in Nepal and the Alzheimers Society in which Geoff has a personal interest.

The race itself is being organised by Bufo Ventures Ltd, based in the Lake District.

All proceeds from the marathon will be donated to the Everest Marathon Fund, a registered charity which supports grassroot development projects in Nepal.

The previous races have raised a total of £300,000 for the fund.