A Newport man will take on a 250km ultra-marathon in the Sahara Desert. Lee Blunt, 46, is preparing to tackle the daunting Marathon des Sables in April next year, all in aid of St David's Hospice Care. The six-day event, often considered one of the toughest foot races in the world, will see Mr Blunt carrying all his own food and equipment across sand dunes, rocky jebels, and salt plains in temperatures reaching 50°C. What makes this challenge even more significant for Mr Blunt is that he is not an experienced runner. The last time he ran was during cross-country in school. However, he was a keen rugby player up to the age of 40. He said: "This will be a challenge especially for this very well-padded 46-year-old." Reflecting on what lies ahead, he added: "The sand will be constant companion, and there will be lots of it chafing. "The long stage has become a legend in itself. "I will run/walk, 80-plus kilometres (52 miles) until well into the next day. "My feet will swell, crack and bleed under the pressure and the heat." Mr Blunt has chosen to take on the Marathon des Sables to raise funds for St David's Hospice Care, a charity close to his heart. The organisation provides comprehensive palliative care to patients facing life-limiting illnesses in Wales. The hospice has supported Mr Blunt's family and friends in the past, making it possible for loved ones to spend their final days at home. Its mission is to enhance quality of life for patients, delivering high-quality and compassionate end-of-life care regardless of circumstances. Mr Blunt will begin his gruelling journey on April 4, 2025. To support his fundraising efforts, visit his JustGiving page.