A FARMER is getting ready for a gruelling desert challenge dubbed the “toughest foot race on earth”.

Alastair Kerr, of Letheringham, near Wickham Market, will face the ultimate test of endurance when he takes part in the Marathon des Sables.

He is raising money for the Starlight Children’s Foundation, founded by former Dynasty star Emma Samms.

The actress will be heading to Suffolk next month to help Mr Kerr in his fundraising efforts at a charity night at Trinity Park, near Ipswich.

The Marathon des Sables is a six day, 151 mile (243km), challenge that takes place across the Sahara Desert in Morocco at the beginning of April.

It is the equivalent of six marathons in six days and temperatures will soar to a scorching 120F (49C).

Mr Kerr, 38, has been training since September but will have to push himself to the limit to complete the herculean task. He said: “The terrain is uneven, rocky, stony ground, and 15-20% of the distance is over sand dunes.

“In addition you have to carry everything you need for the entire race including all your food, clothing and cooking facilities (apart from water and a tent) on your back.

“It’s the ultimate test. I’m looking forward to it in a weird sort of way.

“I did the Pilgrim Challenge - 66 miles in two days over the North Downs- a few weekends ago and I met lots of people in a similar boat, so that was good. However I think its one of those things that no matter how much you train for it, it will never be enough.”

Starlight grants once-in-a-lifetime wishes for seriously and terminally ill children and also provides entertainment for youngsters in hospitals and hospices throughout the UK.

Mr Kerr said one of the reasons he chose the charity was because of its close links with East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).

He said he specifically wanted to raise money to help Starlight fund two new entertainment centres for EACH in Ipswich and Cambridge.

To raise funds he is holding “Starlight Over Suffolk – A Night With The Stars” at Trinity Park on March 19. It will include dinner, an auction and live music.

For details or to order tickets e-mail victoriaparry@starlight.org.uk.

To sponsor Mr Kerr visit http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/AliKerr.