SIR,

I would like to appeal to the generosity of Monmouthshire Beacon readers. I am trying to help my son Paul raise £9,500 for Mencap.

Paul has taken on the challenge of competing in The Marathon des Sables, dubbed 'the toughest footrace on earth', which covers approximately 150 miles over six days.

That's the equivalent of five-and-a-half marathons in six days in extreme conditions.

The desert race takes place in April 2012 in the Moroccan Sahara, where midday temperatures can rise to 120 degrees F.

The terrain is uneven, rocky, stony ground, and 15 to 20 per cent of the distance is over sand dunes.

In addition, competitors have to carry everything they need for the entire race (apart from water and a tent) on their backs. This endurance race really is the ultimate challenge.

Paul has been very fortunate to have had a lot of support from family, friends and some businesses. Unfortunately he is still a little short of his target.

To donate to Paul's charity page please visit virginmoneygiving.com/pauljanes where you will also find a link to his blog 'Fat to Fit'.

I am also willing to take cash and cheques, which I will pay direct to Mencap.

Rose Janes

(Monmouth)