A MAN who faced losing his leg after suffering a blood clot 13 years ago is preparing to take part in a gruelling 69-mile ultra marathon along Hadrian's Wall.

Rob Lister, 37, from Catterick Village, North Yorkshire, was inspired to challenge himself physically and lead a healthier lifestyle after being diagnosed with compartment syndrome in 2001.

He was warned that he had narrowly avoided having his leg amputated following a football injury.

Mr Lister is now hoping his previous time in The Wall ultra marathon when he tackles the tough June 21 event.

"While playing football I got kicked and thought I had a dead leg, but it got progressively worse throughout the day," he said.

"My wife Leanne, who was then my girlfriend, convinced me to go to hospital when it was still painful hours later and it was lucky she did because doctors told me I had compartment syndrome."

It is caused by bleeding or swelling in an enclosed group, or compartment, of muscles. High pressure inside the muscle compartment can potentially cause permanent muscle and nerve damage.

"Doctors told me they had to open the leg to cut away dead muscle to get the blood moving again but that it was touch and go as to whether or not they would have to remove the leg.

"Almost losing my leg was a real wake up call for me and inspired me to make the most of being active and able-bodied.

"I have three children - Lottie, nine, Riley, five, and Noah, three - and I want to try and inspire them to be active, healthy and to take on life's challenges."

Mr Lister has completed a hike to Everest base camp, run part of the Wainwright Way in the Lake District, competed several marathons, and completed The Wall last year in 15 hours and 15 minutes.

He said: "I know what to expect with The Wall after completing it last year but I am determined to beat my time."

The ultra-marathon, organised by adventure sports company Rat Race, follows 69 miles of Hadrian's Wall between Carlisle Castle and Newcastle Gateshead Quayside over a mixed-terrain route.

For more information visit http://www.ratracethewall.com