YORK dad-of-two Jonathan Millea is about to embark on a gruelling physical challenge in memory of his brother who died shortly after birth.

This week, Jonathan, 42, of Bishopthorpe, will be running for four miles every four hours over 48 hours - that's 48 miles or almost two marathons - to mark what would have been his brother Leigh's 40th birthday.

Leigh died at six days old - and Jonathan is raising money in aid of Sands, the stillbirth and neonatal death charity which supports bereaved parents

Jonathan, who is married with two daughters, said: "The third of November is probably a normal day for the majority of people I know but for me and my family it marks the birthday of my baby brother Leigh Jordan Millea who sadly died after just six short days back in 1981.

"At the time, I was just a toddler but I have many memories of the excitement and build up to me having a younger brother.

"I recall the confusion of him never coming home and I’ve also witnessed over the years the impact his death has had on my mum and dad.

"They both dealt with their loss in different ways and for my mum the Sands team provided an opportunity for support and the ability to care for others who had suffered in a similar way."

Jonathan, who took up running during lockdown, decided to mark Leigh's 40th with a sporting challenge which starts on Wednesday.

"I intended to do the run earlier in 2021 but I've had a number of injuries, but I'm all set for it to start at midnight on November the third, finishing at 8pm on November 4th - at the Marcia Pub in Bishopthorpe for a well-earned pint!"

Jonathan has set up a WhatsApp group so friends can join him on a leg of the run.

It looks set to be a gruelling task with Jonathan running for 35 minutes, coming home to an ice bath, hot shower, stretches and to refuel and have a nap before heading out again.

He was inspired to do the 4x4x48 challenge by ultra runner David Goggins.

Jonathan has set up a Just Giving page (www.justgiving.com/fundraising/jonathan-millea) which along with cash sponsorship has raised almost £1,600 for SANDS.

Sponsors include: Persimmon Homes in York; Lester Aldridge Solicitors in Bournemouth; Moran Smart Homes of Leeds; Barratt Homes of Leeds; Chartford Homes of Leeds; Avison Young of Leeds; GEOL Consultants of Gateshead, along with friends and family members.

Jonathan added: "I dedicate the run to my mum, my dad, Leigh and to the most wonderful brother I am lucky to share my life with - Ben Millea."