A FIREFIGHTER preparing to take part in an event known as the toughest foot race on earth – a 150-mile marathon across the Sahara Desert – is putting out a last call for sponsorship. Paul Oliver has entered the Marathon des Sables to raise money for Macmi

A FIREFIGHTER preparing to take part in an event known as the toughest foot race on earth - a 150-mile marathon across the Sahara Desert - is putting out a last call for sponsorship.

Paul Oliver has entered the Marathon des Sables to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support after the charity helped his brother, David, through skin cancer.

David was diagnosed in 2002, just after his wife had given birth to their second child.

Paul said: "David has now made a complete recovery but we will never forget the help he received from Macmillan and I want to do everything I can to support the charity."

Paul has paid the £2,500 entry fee for the race and has managed to raise more than £850 for the charity but is a long way from his £1,500 target.

He said: "I have paid the entry fee out of my own pocket as I want all the money raised to go direct to Macmillan. I am still a long way from my target and I am desperate to raise more money."

About 800 people a year take part in the Marathon des Sables, but only a few cross the finishing line. The race takes place in temperatures of up to 120F (49C) in six stages over seven days from March 27 in the Sahara.

INFORMATION: To make a donation, you can give online at ­www.justgiving.com/poliver