Mark Calder, director of Policy and Advocacy at Christian charity World Vision, is embarking on a 24-hour run in Carlisle, in aid of Afghanistan.
He told Premier he felt moved to “do something” after a recent visit to the country, which has suffered from a Taliban takeover, followed by devastating floods which left thousands homeless.
“I met with one of my World Vision colleagues, who was living in a tent on the rubble of what was his home,” said Mark. “His pregnant wife was crouched in the tent. His elderly parents lived in a tent next to them. I just thought I had to do something.
“I’m not a particularly imaginative person, but I can run. I have done ultramarathons before, but this one’s a bit harder. You've got to stay on your feet for longer.”
Mark told Premier he wanted to take on the challenge to combat tragedy “fatigue” in the West: “Afghanistan has had four decades of conflict. [Now] there’s a rising threat of climate change, extreme weather and drought. My big worry is that political attention will be elsewhere, and the poorest and most at-risk Afghans will be left to fend for themselves.”
He continued: “Poverty is the biggest driver of all the challenges Afghans face – especially women and girls. I would urge prayer for Afghanistan.”
And his fuel of choice? “Boiled new potatoes in salt! That gives me a real energy boost.”
Mark is set to take on his run later this month, and has set up a JustGiving page.