A NORTH-EAST man is attempting to break a world record by being the fastest soldier to complete the London Marathon with a backpack and full kit.
Warrant Officer Gordon Chaplin lived in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, until he joined the Army 16 years ago but frequently visits his family there.
WO Chaplin is currently serving with 1st battalion of The Royal School of Military Engineering in Chatham, Kent, and has been deployed in Bosnia, Iraq and Afghanistan.
He and a colleague will attempt the record, currently 5hrs 10mins, in full combat kit which weighs 36lbs.
He said: "We will be raising money for the MacMillan Cancer Support who have been a great help to my wife Alex and our family over the past several months.
"We would appreciate any sponsorship, as MacMillan provide a great voluntary service to people diagnosed with cancer and their families.
"We will also be raising funds for Help for Heroes as this is another cause close to our hearts".
WO Chaplin is asking for people to sponsor him "to go through a little of the pain that other people go through every day."
To sponsor WO Chaplin visit justgiving.com/charliechaplin1.
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