A CHARITY worker ran 59km to support people with an infectious disease.

James Byfield is the marketing and fundraising assistant for Lepra, a charity in Colchester supporting people with leprosy.

To raise funds for the charity, James took part in the Ottawa Lumberjack Challenge in Canada, which consists of running 2km, 5km and 10km races.

These races are followed by the gruelling Ottawa Marathon.

He completed the three smaller races the day before running the marathon on only a few hours of sleep - his distance amounted to 59.2km over two days.

He crossed the marathon finish line after six hours and 42 minutes.

James had to endure frequent downpours during the two-day challenge.

He said: “I am passionate about raising awareness of leprosy and hope my multiple marathon challenge will inspire others to challenge themselves whilst fundraising for such a good and worthwhile cause.”

He has raised more than £650 so far.