RUNNING for election might sound exhausting enough for some but energetic Dudley councillor Richard Body is planning on running 100 miles non-stop two weeks after polling day.

Cradley and Wollescote councillor Richard Body, who faces competition from four other candidates in the race to the polls this Thursday (May 2), is getting set to take part in The Chester 100 on Saturday May 18 to help raise funds for the Cradley Clock.

The 53-year-old Labour councillor has successfully completed more than 20 marathons, including five ultra runs, since being diagnosed with stage four knee arthritis and advised not to run again.

His latest outing was a 50-mile run from Manchester to Liverpool on Good Friday but his next challenge will be double the distance.

He said: "I'm sure attempting to cover 100 miles non-stop is going to be my most physical and mentally demanding challenge I have ever undertaken.

"I have 34 hours to cover the distance taking place on trails around the Chester and northwest area."

Formerly overweight and a self-confessed chain smoker, cllr Body took up running to help lose weight and improve his health but the running bug took over and he hasn't looked back - although he admits: "I have never yet managed to run pain free."

Cllr Body will be raising funds to help St Peter's Church in Cradley to install a heritage clock on the church tower.

He said: "St Peters managed to save the clock from St Lukes Cradley Heath before it was condemned for demolition and it just happens to have a perfect space for the clock to be installed.

"With St Peters being prominently situated on a hill, the Cradley Clock will be seen from miles away and will bring a welcome addition to the town's heritage."

Cllr Body is urging anyone who might wish to sponsor him to make a small donation to the Cradley Clock fund via his JustGiving.com page (search Richard Body).

Alternatively donations can be made directly to the church.

Cllr Body faces competition in Cradley and Wollescote from James Clinton (Conservative), Mitch Bolton (Black Country Party), Euan Dunn (UKIP) and Ryan Priest (Liberal Democrats).