MAN TO RUN FULL LENGTH OF RAIL LINE FOR CHARITY

Runner's 24-hour 73-mile Metro challenge

- By EMILY GRAY

A CHARITY fundraiser is to take on the epic challenge of running the full length of the Tyne and Wear Metro system within a single day.

Paul McDougal of Cramlington will attempt to conquer Metro's full route length in 24 hours. He will track the Metro lines as closely as possible, taking in the fastest routes between all 60 stations via public roads and footpaths.

Paul is taking on the 73.5-mile ultra-marathon to raise money for the National Association for Children of Alcoholics (Nacoa), a UK charity which supports children whose parents are suffering from alcohol addiction.

It is a cause close to the 35-year-old's heart, as his late mother, Sarah, battled alcohol addiction when he was growing up.

The run takes place on the weekend of February 7 and 8, with Paul due to finish at St James Metro station in Newcastle city centre.

And as a big Newcastle United fan he plans to do the run in a black-and-white shirt.