AN ENDURANCE athlete is hoping to set a world record of running for 24 hours straight – while juggling at the same time.

"Joggler" Tim Butler, 42, says he hopes to be the first person in the world to complete the test of endurance while simultaneously carrying out the circus act next summer.

If he makes it through, he will become the first person in the world to do it.

"I'm hoping to do a 24-hour race next year and if I do I will officially get that registered as a world record," said the dad-of-one, who lives in the Boultham Park area of the city.

"I've been in touch with Guinness and they say I'll need to cover at least 100 miles during the 24 hours, so I'm aiming for about 105 to 110 miles.

"I'll do regular juggling during the most part, but I might mix it up a bit towards the end and do something with fire or sticks.

"Doing things like this is exhausting and you want to give up all the time but you just have to push yourself to carry on."

His plans follow a 56-mile joggling run at the Ultra Distance races at the end of August in Boston.

Mr Butler, an engineer at Lincoln County Hospital, who runs regularly with the Lincoln and District Runners club, added the extra dimension of juggling to that 12-hour effort before coming first.

"As well as running, you could walk sections as well, so I probably did about 80 per cent running and 20 per cent walking," said Mr Butler, who has been juggling while running for the past three years.

He has competed in numerous events, including the Sleaford half-marathon, the Spires and Steeples challenge and the Lincoln 10k last year.

He said: "I got a few funny looks at the start of the run where I think people thought I was taking the mickey, but it was serious.

"I also thought I would try to raise some money for charity at the same time. I managed to raise £250 for the Weirfield Wildlife Hospital in Lincoln, which is good news."

Mr Butler began running several years ago as part of rehab for an injury. But he found it boring so decided to incorporate juggling.

For the world record attempt, he is hoping to run at Yarborough Leisure Centre, which is run by charity Active Nation.

Emma Lockwood, campaign and communications co-ordinator at Yarborough Leisure Centre, said: "Active Nation is proud to be support Tim and his incredible challenge. As a charity we are passionate about inspiring people to get involved in sports and activity."

Mr Butler will be at a fete at Washingborough Village Hall on Sunday where he will be offering free juggling lessons.