Talented all-rounder Christian Varley is going to attempt to run 19 marathons on consecutive days in order to raise money for the Manx Solidarity Fund.

The physical activity coordinator for Manx Sport and Recreation and former professional cyclist will begin the gruelling challenge today (Friday) in Peel at midday and then follow a route to Douglas incorporating Lord Street along the promenade to Summerland and back, before returning to Peel.

His challenge will follow the required social distancing rules.

Christian is aiming to raise money for the MSF which was formed in March to provide financial support for local individuals, charities and businesses negatively impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Patron of the Manx Solidarity Fund, Lieutenant Governor Sir Richard Gozney, will flag Christian off at a discrete distance on the first of his marathons from Peel Castle.

Speaking about the challenge, Varley commented: ’Over the course of the pandemic I have become increasingly aware of the devastating impact that it has had on our community, from the tragic loss of life through to the financial impact.

’I have witnessed some inspiring challenges in the island of late and have felt very motivated to do something to help those who are suffering. Once I became aware of the Manx Solidarity Fund, it felt like the perfect platform for me to get involved with.

’After discussing with friend and fellow sportsman, Martin Hall, a trustee of the fund, I came up with the 19 marathons in 19 days challenge.

’If one person in the Isle of Man ends up in a better position through my efforts to help raise much-needed funds then I will consider that all my efforts can be considered a success.’

Varley also has other motivations for undertaking the challenge: ’Covid-19 has also created further problems for those people struggling with mental health issues.

’This is something I have struggled with myself in the past and I firmly believe that encouraging exercise can be a very positive solution for many people during this time.’

Melanie Kermeen, also a trustee at the Manx Solidarity Fund, said: ’We are delighted that Christian has chosen to support the Manx Solidarity Fund with this incredible personal challenge.

’Attempting to run 19 marathons in 19 days embodies the resilience and determination of our island and we hope that it will capture peoples’ interest.

’We’d encourage people to follow Christian’s progress via our social media, where his daily routes, blogs and updates will be posted. On behalf of the trustees, I’d like to thank Christian and wish him the very best of luck!’

What makes Varley’s challenge even more admirable is that he will be fitting his runs around the commitments demanded by his full-time role with Manx Sport and Recreation. These require him to work mornings, evenings and at weekends, which mean that his runs will take place at varying times of day over the course of the 19 days.

In addition to his employer, Christian is also grateful for the support of his daughter’s mother, Rachel, and her mother Tracey, without whom he would not be able to undertake this challenge.

Thanks to the incredible generosity of donors from across the local community, more than £200,000 has been raised for the Manx Solidarity Fund to date.

Donations to the fund can be made at www.manxsolidarityfund.com/donate or via its JustGiving page at www.justgiving.com/manxsolidarityfund