WHILE most people view retirement as a chance to put their feet up Brecon based police officer Andrew Gleeson plans to compete in one of the world's toughest races to mark his final year in the force.

The police sergeant intends retiring from the Dyfed Powys force following 30 years service next year and enter the gruelling 156 mile Sahara desert marathon.

The six day Marathon Des Sables is dubbed 'the toughest footrace on earth' and competitors must carry their equipment at all times including sleeping bag, water and other essentials throughout the ultramarathon, which is the equivalent of six regular marathons, in temperatures pushing 50 Degrees Celsius.

The 52-year-old of Crickhowell, who will be raising funds for military charity Help for Heroes, said: "My aim is to finish alive and well, to enjoy the whole race and hopefully raise some money for a good cause."

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