A LOCAL sportsman is undertaking an epic challenge for Prostate Cymru next month.


Henry Durrant, well known for his cricket and football exploits with Neyland, is doing the ‘Run for Ray’ challenge, which will see him attempt to run 186 miles over seven days, which equates to just over a marathon a day.


His route incorporates the tough terrain of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path.


The 25-year-old is the partner of Katy Griffiths, the granddaughter of the late Ray Williams OBE, who passed away in December 2014.


“Ray was highly respected throughout the world of rugby for the way he revolutionised coaching in the game,” explained Henry.


“He went on to be secretary of the Welsh Rugby Union and was regarded as a world class administrator for the sport.


“But what is lesser known is that Ray was a passionate supporter of the Prostate Cymru cause.


“As an official ambassador to the charity, he was constantly active in helping to raise much needed funds, and raising awareness about the constant battle against the most common form of cancer in men in Wales.”


Indeed. Ray was also founder Chairman of the Pembrokeshire Friends of Prostate Cymru. In the first 18 months of its existence, the groups have raised more than £70,000.


And Henry said it was Ray’s work that had prompted him to undertake such a difficult challenge.
“Ray’s work, alongside my huge respect for the man, has inspired me to set myself a challenge to make a contribution to the Prostate Cymru Charity in his memory.”


“On August 24, I will embark in a challenge to run 186 miles (299km) in seven days, along the iconic Pembrokeshire Coast Path.


“This equates to just over a marathon a day across incredibly tough terrain. The overall ascents and descents will be equal to the height of Mount Everest.”


To help sponsor Henry, visit www.justgiving.com/RunforRay2015/.