AN intrepid Widnes athlete is tackling a gruelling marathon.

Mark Stanton is taking part in the world’s longest annual canoe and kayak race in the Yukon province of north west Canada.

The dad-of-two is competing in the Yukon River Quest, a 444-mile non stop five day race.

“It is one of the toughest challenges in the world, not something everyone can do,” said Mark.

“I try and do something every year for Cancer Research and this ticked all the boxes.

“Cancer Research is close to my heard after losing my grandad to cancer.”

Mark served in the Corps of Royal Engineers and now works for Burdens, part of Wolseley, one of the country’s leading distributors of heating, plumbing and construction products.

He will be setting off with 15 of his colleagues on Wednesday aiming to complete the race in 50 hours.

The Everton fan has done several endurance events although this is his first one on water.

“The biggest challenge is being away from the family half way round the world,” added team captain Mark.

“Lack of sleep and keeping motivated as fatigue and pain set in will also be difficult.”

Mark says with two children, Emily and Max, and wife, Sarah, it is hard finding the time to train.

“Training for an hour and there each day sometimes twice a day is no problem.

“But finding the time to train for six to eight hours endurance on my road bike is hard with a young family.”

The team hopes to raise £100,000 for Cancer Research.

To donate visit teamyukonriverquest.co.uk.