A HAMPSHIRE mum is taking on a gruelling physical challenge in a bid to save desperate animals.

Alice Burch is on a mission to complete 60 marathons in 60 days in aid of malnourished, abused and dying animals.

The 33-year-old from Woodlands will be testing her body to the limit for the charity SPANA, which aims to help donkeys in poverty-stricken parts of the world.

And the determined mum hopes that her mammoth efforts will secure her a place in the Guinness Book of Records.

Alice, who runs recruitment firm Seamariner in Hythe, said: “I am really looking forward to pushing myself, both physically and mentally.

“I think I have a determined mind for it, I just need to look after my nutrition and rest as much as possible for recovery and keep a steady pace.

“60 marathons in 60 days is starting to feel more real now.

“I am hoping the Guinness Book of Records will confirm the record and criteria.

“My mum doesn’t think I can manage it physically, which has made me even more determined to do it.

“I think it will be a juggling act as I will be spending time with my daughter, working, eating well and resting.”

The current official Guinness World Record is 52 consecutive marathons by a man and 17 by a woman, so 60 would be a huge achievement.

Alice has already completed various endurance races including an Ironman triathlon and the North Pole Marathon.

She first discovered the charity after her friend’s parent died and people were asked to donate to the cause after her funeral.

Alice, who has a two-year-old daughter, added: “A small amount of money really does go a very long way.

“Animals have no voice and need our help to protect them and educate others around them for safekeeping.

“Our money can save lives and help these animals. SPANA needs our support.

“We’ve seen the working mules that died as they could not be saved.

“SPANA reported on one village where one year no donkeys died as the vets were able to care.

“The animals in these poor countries are fundamental to their way of life so it is crucial to support the animals so they can support the families.

“I believe in education and training to help the problem.

“60 marathons in 60 days is little compared to what these animals go through every day of their lives.”

As well as running marathons around the track at the Thornhill Road Outdoor Sports Centre, Alice will be taking part in the Bournemouth Marathon, a salsa marathon day, Abingdon Marathon and Beachy Head Marathon.

She will also take on the Halloween Family Day Marathon, Alice’s Birthday Cake Day Marathon, Bonfire Night-themed Marathon and Seamariner-sponsored marathon.

She is hoping people will join her for the themed events and has a fundraising target of £100,000.

To support Alice, who starts on October 1, visit justgiving.com/Alice60Marathons60Days.