Dad in 36-hour ultra run for diabetes research

Mehdi Taheri's daughter, Scarlett, was diagnosed with diabetes 13 years ago

A Plymouth man is aiming to run for 36 hours straight to raise money for diabetes research.

Mehdi Taheri is taking on a gruelling challenge called a Backyard Ultra, starting from his restaurant, Fuel, on Looe Street.

The event will see Mr Taheri and 99 other runners complete 4.2 mile (6.8km) laps around Plymouth's Barbican, Hoe and Royal William Yard.

They will keep going for as long as they can, with some aiming for up to 156 miles in total.

The challenge is part of Mr Taheri's mission to raise awareness and funds for charity Breakthrough T1D.

His daughter, Scarlett, was diagnosed 13 years ago and Mr Taheri hopes the money raised will help prevent misdiagnosis and fund research for a cure.

"Honestly, [the run is] nothing as hard as dealing with Type 1 diabetes. That is hard," he said.

The event sold out quickly, with runners donating £20 each to take part.

Mr Taheri and his team will provide snacks, smoothies and energy drinks to keep participants going.

He has already raised more than £140,000 over the years and plans to keep pushing.

"We got a reason, and I couldn't do any of this by myself," he said.