Man's bid to become oldest Brit to complete gruelling 150mile race

A 75-year-old man from North Somerset is aiming to become the oldest Briton to take on the infamous Marathon Des Sables.

The 150 mile course across the Sahara desert in blistering heat is commonly referred to as one of the most gruelling tests of physical endurance known to man.

David Exell is semi-retired. For most this would mean more time to relax and enjoy the peaceful things in life - for David it means more time to limber up and prepare for the toughest footrace on earth.

At 75, David is hoping to become the oldest Briton to complete the gruelling 150 mile course- a title currently held by Sir Rannalph Finnes.

The oldest Brit to complete the Marathon de Sables is currently Sir Rannalph Finnes Credit: Marie Curie

As well as dealing with sandstorms, blistering temperatures and rough terrain, David will have to carry everything he needs on his back- thats around 10 kilos of water, food, sleeping equipment- even an anti venom pen in case of snake bites.

David has to carry all his kit with him on his back

But it's animals of a different kind that David is keen to avoid.

The Marathon de Sables is known as one of the toughest races in the world Credit: Marie Curie

And if he needs more motivation to keep one foot in front of the other and avoid those camels, David will be raising money for two charities- Mountain rescue and the Bristol Area Stroke Foundation.

He swaps the rolling hills of the mendips for the sweeping sahara on April the 7th.