Brentwood School's Head Gardener has completed a mammoth physical challenge to raise awareness of a rare disease.

Paul Dorrell from Basildon was inspired by a colleague whose son died, aged only 11, from Ataxia-Telangiectasia (A-T) after being ill for three years. Paul decided to take part in the dauntingly-titled Hellrunner to raise money for, and awareness of, the A-T Society. He was joined by his brother, Tony.

The gruelling 12-mile army camp run in Longmoore, Hampshire, took place on November 4, with over 2000 runners. Paul's colleague, Tony Bridger, was there to cheer him on, along with his colleague's wife who is a trustee of the A-T Society. He commented: "My wife and I would like to send our sincere thanks to them and everyone who sponsored them. We believe that the final amount raised will be over £1500 - a sum of money which will make a huge difference to a small children's charity."

A-T is a rare, neurodegenerative, inherited disease which affects many parts of the body and causes severe disability. It first shows itself in early childhood and is progressive, affecting the cerebellum (the body's motor control centre). In about 70% of cases it also weakens the immune system, leading to respiratory disorders.

Paul said: "This was probably the hardest task I have ever done: 12 miles through rivers, bogs and sand dunes on multi-terrain. The worst part for me was the 40-50ft drop down to the river, and then we had to wade through to the other side and climb back up. My completion time was 2 hours and 5 minutes. It was great fun doing it and I will certainly do something harder next year.

"I would like to thank everyone who has sponsored me and those who gave me support in my training. The donations will go to such good use at the A-T Society."

For further information about A-T, visit http://www.atsociety.org.uk/