Michael plans gruelling charity challenge to celebrate his 50th birthday

Michael, who owns Melton Sports in King Street, will be competing in the Equinox24 endurance race at Belvoir Castle later this month for charity.

He has entered the 24-hour event on September 22-23 as a solo competitor in aid of the Belvoir Cricket and Countryside Trust for which he also works as a community fundraiser.

Michael, a former editor of the Melton Times, has set himself the target of running a minimum of 50 miles - one for every year.

He said: “I have never done an ultra event like this before but I reckon it’s better than counting candles on a cake.

“It will hurt so any donations for this good cause will be much appreciated and will keep me going.”

Michael added: “The Trust is a fantastic sports and education charity which works with up to 3,000 local primary and special needs children every year, getting them up and active and out into the countryside to learn and play.

“Our aim is to help inspire the next generation to lead healthy, active lives.”

Go online at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/MichaelCooke50for50 if you would like to sponsor Michael.