A SWANSEA GP who caught the running bug at the tender age of 55 is taking part in a record-breaking marathon attempt.

Richard Baker, 59 is raising money for Brain Tumour UK by running in RelayGB, which involves hundreds of runners covering 3,100 miles in 119 non-stop, back-to-back marathons.

The current world record for long-distance relay running at 1,923 miles.

Dr Baker, originally from New Zealand, has run nine marathons before, and said he was looking forward to his 26-mile leg in May.

"I'm running in the relay marathon for several reasons," he said. "I was looking for a new challenge and the chance of being part of a world record attempt was irresistible. Plus the run is going through Swansea and other areas that I know. My patients and family will help with fundraising."

Dr Baker works at Sway Road Surgery, Morriston, and has previously raised money for Breast Cancer Care with his pavement-pounding antics.

Brain Tumour UK provides support, funding, research and raises awareness. It said two people are diagnosed every hour in the UK with a brain tumour.

Send donations to Dr Baker at Sway Road Surgery, 65 Sway Road, Morriston, Swansea SA6 6JA.