HE will be running 130 miles in memory of a friend.

Joe Riley is taking on the challenge of five full marathons in five days around the streets of Winchester.

The English teacher will begin each day at one of his favourite pubs in Winchester, but not to kick back and enjoy the Easter holidays, but as a starting point as he embarks on the course that takes him through each of the five city gates.

He starts today at St James’ Tavern, tomorrow at The Black Boy, at The Eclipse Inn on Good Friday and The Wykeham Arms on Saturday. On Easter Sunday he will run from The Square Brewery in Petersfield to The Bishop on the Bridge in Winchester.

Joe, 26, of New Road, Colden Common, is taking on the mammoth challenge for Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY), a charity that helps those affected by sudden adult death syndrome (SADS) He was inspired to raise money for the charity after the death of tennis coach and Alresford Rugby club member Alex Watley, who died from SADS in December 2011 at the age of 23.

The pair were students together at Peter Symonds College in Winchester.

Mr Riley said: “I think the thing that I have been trying to say to people is that I have not been personally affected by the syndrome, but I know a lot of people that have and Alex is just one of many young people that passed away that didn’t necessarily have to.

“I would love to get as many people on board to support this great cause as possible.”

This isn’t the first time Joe has attempted such a mammoth feat – in July last year he completed four marathons in four days and raised £800 for CRY.

“I aim to continue to raise funds and awareness for and about this cause. The charity does a huge amount for those who have been affected by SADS and they’re a charity I’m proud to put my legs through hell for,” he said.