RUNNING one gruelling marathon in a year would be enough for most people.

But for Joe Elliott, 21, of Hillway, Westcliff, Sunday is the first part of a double-bill.

Joe, who works for Southend Council, can look forward to preparing for the New York marathon in November.

He said the death of his grandfather, Colin Denson, to Parkinson's Disease, in 2005, inspired him to raise money and he is hoping to raise £1,500.

To sponsor Joe, go to www.justgiving.com/joemarathonmanelliott