Mark Calder, director of Policy and Advocacy at Christian charity World Vision, is embarking on a 24-hour run in Carlisle, in aid of Afghanistan.

He said that he felt moved to “do something” after a recent visit to the country, which has suffered from a Taliban takeover, followed by devastating floods which left thousands homeless.

“I met with one of my World Vision colleagues, who was living in a tent on the rubble of what was his home,” said Mark Calder. “His pregnant wife was crouched in the tent. His elderly parents lived in a tent next to them. I just thought I had to do something.

“I’m not a particularly imaginative person, but I can run. I have done ultramarathons before, but this one’s a bit harder. You’ve got to stay on your feet for longer.”

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