A pilates instructor from Parsons Green is to run the breadth of Britain in just eight days.

The daunting challenge will see Hollie Grant, 24, run 190 miles – the equivalent of eight marathons.

She will start in the west in St Bees, Cumbria and track a route through the Yorkshire Moors before finishing in Robin Hoods Bay on the east coast.

Hollie, who works at Absolute Pilates in Heathmans Road, is no stranger to gruelling tasks, having previously cycled from Land's End to John O'Groats, and she has been desperate to take on a new challenge ever since.

"I'm not a great jogger but ever since I did the cycle ride, which I absolutely loved, I've wanted to do something different and I'm finally in a position to get to do it," she said.

Hollie admits she is slightly apprehensive about the challenge but has no doubts she will rise to it.

"I was with other people when I did the cycle ride but this time I''ll be on my own and alone with my thoughts for 14 hours per day.

"Also a lot of the route is quite bleak, especially the Yorkshire Moors. And not being a natural runner I'm a bit nervous about blisters and things, but I'm the most stubborn person ever so I'll never give up."

Hollie is running for two charities, including one run by her father called Braveheart, which looks into ways of improving the lives of ex-serviceman. The other is World Wide Helpers, which places people on volunteer schemes.

"Both charities are close to my heart," added Hollie, who wants to raise £5,000.

*To sponsor her, visit www.justgiving.com/8days8marathons