THE father of Elle Edwards is taking on one of the “toughest” foot-races in the world in memory of his daughter, Elle Edwards.

Elle was fatally shot in the head by Connor Chapman while she was standing in the smoking area of the Lighthouse Pub in Wallasey on Christmas Eve last year.

The 26-year-old was out celebrating the festivities with her sister and friends before Chapman, of Houghton Road, Woodchurch, open fire with a Skorpian sub-machine gun just after 11.50pm.

Elle, who was caught in the crossfire, was shot dead while five other men were injured.

In July this year, Chapman was jailed for 48 years for the murder of Elle, 22 years for the attempted murders of Kieran Salkeld and Jake Duffy, seven years for wounding, 18 months for assault, 15 years for possession of a firearm and three years for stolen property.

Now her father, Tim Edwards is preparing for the Marathon Des Sables across the Sahara Desert in her memory.

The six-day marathon is run in 40 degree heat, and covers 156 miles.

Tim set off on Monday, April 8 where he has been getting used to the climate before the race begins on Monday, April 15.

Tim, who has been training on New Brighton beach, has launched a fundraising page with the money raised being divided between the Elle Edwards Foundation and Charlotte’s Brightside.

Tim said: “I truly, cannot wait for the MDS Legendary, I also know that this is serious business not to be underestimated.

“I have two things in my favour, my Elle, first and foremost, secondly, I am looking forward to the pain it's going to bring my way.

“Pain is just weakness leaving the body. Others in the race will have elite support and the best of the best alongside them. Me, I'm just a divvy from the best place on the planet, giving up is not an option.”

To donate to the fundraising page click here.