A WEST KIRBY man has completed a six-day long marathon across the Sahara Desert raising thousands for a childhood cancer charity.

Lee Quinn, a manager at Merseyside-based law firm Your Legal Friend, took on the toughest footrace on earth – the Marathon des Sables.

He covered 156 miles in six days in temperatures exceeding 40 degrees, finishing in 326th place out of 1,200 participants.

Lee, 40 said: “It was the most difficult thing I’ve ever had to do in my life.

“It was extremely challenging, especially competing in such high temperatures. Many people had to drop out due to the intense environment.”

“It was brutal on my body but it was well worth it.”

“I’m so grateful to everyone who has supported me and donated. The money will make a huge difference to the children and families that Neuroblastoma UK care for.”

Nearly £8,000 was raised for Neuroblastoma UK, a charity working with children diagnosed with a rare form of cancer.

The organisation will receive every penny as Lee funded his own travel, food and the cost of participating in the race himself.

To be fit enough for the challenge Lee trained for over 16 months with a combination of gym sessions and outdoor workouts at various times of the day.

He also undertook training at Liverpool John Moores University.

Lee is looking to try another challenge in 2018, he added: “It’s been a fantastic test to overcome but I’m going to take a break.

“My wife, family and friends and colleagues at Your Legal Friend have been very supportive but I think I’ll look for a new challenge in two years’ time.”

“I’ve got a few ideas, perhaps something in the mountains or in the jungle, you’ll have to watch this space.”

Lee’s JustGiving page will remain open until July. Anyone who would like to donate should visit www.justgiving.com/LeeQuinn03/