VOLUNTEERS are aiming to conquer two back-to-back marathons in less than 24 hours to raise funds for a care home's sensory garden.

Walkers will tackle the 49-mile route – which is only three miles short of a double marathon – to raise £1,000 for Halton View Care Home, in Sadler Street, Widnes.

Brian Freeston, husband to the home’s activities coordinator Laura Freeston, has organised the walk from Widnes to his hometown of Rhyl, on the Welsh coast.

He has been backed by DW Sports Fitness, based in Cross Street, who has offered one-hour a week of free personal training to anyone who takes part.

The gym is also arranging additional fundraising events during March, involving a treadmill and exercise bikes.

All funds raised will be used to buy raised flower beds, flowers, herbs and vegetables, providing a colourful, edible garden to stimulate sight, sound and smell for residents at Halton View Care Home.

Laura said: “We wanted to raise funds for a sensory garden for our residents to enjoy.

“Brian has done lots of charity walks and bike rides to various places before and, being originally from Rhyl, he came up with the idea of walking there from Widnes.

“He’s currently planning to complete the walk in approximately 17 hours and anyone else who wishes to take part is welcome to do so.

“We’d also welcome any and all donations, which can be made through our JustGiving page or we have sponsorship forms at the care home.”

The sponsored walk from Widnes to Rhyl will take place on Saturday, April 13.

Anyone who would like to take part in the walk should contact Laura Freeston at Halton View Care Home by calling 0151 422 0001.