A teenage cancer sufferer has inspired personnel from RNAS Culdrose to take on a unique fundraising challenge later this month.

The navy team will be attempting a "round the clock" run from Penzance to London - recreating the historic journey of the young naval officer charged with delivering messages about the victory at the Battle of Trafalgar and Lord Nelson's death more than 200 years ago.

Lieutenant Lapenotiere made his way to the capital on horseback - 19 changes of steed allowing him to cover 266 miles in little over 37 hours.

The Culdrose runners will be attempting to beat his time and, to add to the challenge, will be lengthening the journey somewhat by setting off from Penzance instead of Falmouth.

Their efforts are inspired by 13-year-old Rosie Howis, from Penzance, who suffers from Ewing Sarcoma - a rare form of bone cancer affecting only a handful of children in the UK each year.

Rosie, who has family connections with the Helston air base, issued the challenge to the runners in a bid to raise funds for the children's ward at the Royal Cornwall Hospital in Truro, where she is undergoing extensive chemotherapy treatment.

As they make their way to Admiralty House in London, the Culdrose team will be carrying a baton from Rosie and a plea to those they meet on the road to donate to her charity.

The run is scheduled to take place during the week beginning Monday, October 22, following the traditional Lord Nelson thanksgiving service and parade held at Madron the previous day.

Each of the runners will cover a distance of more than 30 miles over a 48-hour period.

Anyone willing to sponsor the team is asked to contact event organiser Chief Petty Officer Matt Weetch on 01326 552815 or e-mail cuscpo@culdrose.mod.uk.