A YOUNG athlete is preparing for a mammoth fundraising challenge.

Ellie Horrocks, 19, will attempt to break the world record for the most chest-to-floor burpees in 24 hours, all in support of Blood Cancer UK.

She will be taking on the major task at the 606 Strength & Conditioning gym in Wharfedale Road, Bradford, on April 6 and 7.

The inspiration behind Ellie's extraordinary challenge is deeply personal.

Ellie, of Brighouse, said: "I chose Blood Cancer UK because my grandad Tony was diagnosed with stage four Hodgkin's lymphoma in April 2022.

"After many months of treatment and staying in hospital over Christmas for nearly a month, he is now getting better and in remission.

"Seeing the effects this awful disease had on my grandad and the effects it had on my family and friends, I want to raise money for Blood Cancer UK to help transform treatments to keep families together."

Ellie's fundraiser - which coincides with World Health Day - is aptly named Burpees for Blood.

Her target is not only to beat the current world record of 8,116 burpees but also to raise £8,117 in donations.

Ellie said: "I want to prove to everyone young and old that you can do anything if you put your mind to it."

Her athletic prowess is well-established, with achievements including completing the Ironman 70.3 in Lanzarote and running a marathon in an impressive three hours and 37 minutes.

Ellie is inviting members of the public and businesses to be part of her world record attempt by donating to Burpees for Blood.

To support Ellie and Blood Cancer UK, visit https://justgiving.com/page/burpees4blood

A Blood Cancer UK spokesperson wished Ellie good luck.

They added: "We're a community dedicated to beating blood cancer.

"We do this by funding research and supporting those affected.

"Since 1960, we've invested more than £500million in blood cancer research, transforming treatments and saving lives.

"Right now, our community is funding 360 researchers and staff across the UK who are searching for the next breakthrough.

"The day we will beat blood cancer is now in sight and the researchers are determined to finish the job."

Blood cancer is a type of cancer which affects people's blood cells.

Leukaemia, lymphoma and myeloma are some of the most common types of blood cancer.

Visit Blood Cancer UK's website at https://wwwbloodcancer.org.uk for further information.