Eddie Izzard 'sorry' to halt 27-marathons challenge

Eddie Izzard forced to postpone 27 marathons challenge Credit: Reuters/Danny Moloshok

Comedian Eddie Izzard has been forced to abandon his attempt to run 27 marathons in 27 days challenge in South Africa, due to "medical complications".

In an online message to his fans today, the comedian said he was "very sorry to let everyone down" as he announced the tough journey was on hold.

Izzard said that "severe terrain, humidity and altitude" could have affected his health.

Izzard had announced the challenge at a sponsors' event in Johannesburg earlier this month, saying the 27 marathons were to represent the 27 years the former South African president Nelson Mandela was imprisoned during the Apartheid era.

The comedian had already finished four of the 26-mile runs when he was forced to quit his unusual tribute to Mandela. But he said he will return to complete the punishing trip in the future.

In the statement, Izzard said:

Eddie Izzard reaches the finish line after completing his 1,100mile run around the UK Credit: Ian Nicholson/PA Wire

Izzard is no stranger to marathons. In 2009 Izzard completed 43 marathons in 51 days for Sport Relief.

However, after his third marathon of this challenge he wrote online that it was "maybe the hardest I've ever run".