A PE teacher is in training to run and cycle 271km over five days to raise money in memory of his father.

Gary Froy, 25, teacher at Kingsbury High School, will run three 40km marathons and cycle two 75km bike rides to cover the distance in aid of Kidney Research UK next year.

He will take on the five day challenge, called #challenge271, in memory of his father Colin Froy a Police Constable with Hertfordshire Constabulary who died in December last year.

He said: “Dad sadly passed away in December 2013 after a long battle with illness. Not only did Dad have cancer and three heart attacks, but also kidney failure which eventually cost him his life.

“Dad spent more than four years on kidney dialysis at Watford General Hospital, a process which involved sitting in a bed for around five hours, three times a week.

“This long, boring process was mentally challenging for Dad, as he had to give up work and would often leave in great pain from each visit.

“As things worsened, Dad was required to wear an oxygen mask to sleep, whilst he lost the feelings in his hands and feet, meaning it was impossible to drive and very painful to even walk.

“However, even through all of this, Dad would not show any signs of weakness to friends or family.

“He was forever smiling, laughing and being positive to anyone who met him and for many they didn't even realise how ill he was.

“Dad was a hero, a man who would do anything for anyone else and now is the time for me to give something back.

“I will be looking to raise a large sum of money to help find a cure, in order that other families don't have to suffer as we have.”

Year eight pupils will be supporting Mr Froy in his mammoth challenge by holding a number of fundraising events in school early next year.

Those interested in sponsoring Mr Froy can do so by clicking here.