A SOLDIER who is set to run a staggering ten marathons in just five days is also going to attempt to smash a world record as part of his training.

Staff Sergeant Jim Offord will try to break the world record for the fastest 100km (62miles) completed on a treadmill...while carrying a 40lb backpack.

The 34-year-old will start the challenge at Club Kingswood, Basildon, at 6.30am, on Tuesday, under the watchful eye of his dad Brian, who works at the club.

Jim is hoping to smash the existing record of 15 hours and 26 minutes, as well as notching up some training for the 10 Squaddies, 10 Marathons in Five Days event in November.

For the epic event, he will lead a team of Royal Engineers, wearing 40lb Army-issue rucksacks, completing a marathon every six hours, followed by six hours’ recovery time.

Jim, from Basildon, created the marathon challenge to raise awareness and money for St Dunstan’s, a charity that provides specialist rehabilitation and training to blind ex-service men and women.

Jim, who serves in the 39 Engineer Regiment, based in Cambridge, said: “Ideally, I’d like to complete the record attempt in 15 hours, or less.

“I know Club Kingswood staff and members will provide moral support, but I’ll also be joined by some of the 10 Squaddies team and staff from St Dunstan’s.

“After what I hope will be a successful world record bid, it’s straight back to training for 10 Squaddies, 10 marathons in Five days.”

The challenge will begin at St Dunstan’s Centre, Sheffield, at 9am, on November 1, and finish at its centre in Ovingdean, near Brighton, at 3pm, on November 5.

To sponsor Jim and the team, visit www.justgiving.co.uk/10squaddies