AN ELY cellist is set to run a half-marathon – with his cello strapped to his back. Religious Studies teacher James Rees, 28, one third of the Extreme Cellists group, will run the Sheffield Half Marathon on April 26, alongside Jeremy Dawson and Clare Wal

AN ELY cellist is set to run a half-marathon - with his cello strapped to his back.

Religious Studies teacher James Rees, 28, one third of the Extreme Cellists group, will run the Sheffield Half Marathon on April 26, alongside Jeremy Dawson and Clare Wallace.

Impromptu recitals will be given at various points in the course - and James - who is a novice runner, still hopes to complete the course under the three hour mark.

The group have played on top of Ely Cathedral and on each of the UK's four highest peaks, carrying their cellos as they go.

Mr Rees, who teaches at King's Ely, moved to the city with his wife after falling in love with the view from the cathedral roof.

Their gruelling treks are all in aid of spinal injury charity Aspire. To donate visit www.justgiving.com/aspire, or send donations to Andrew Ogierman, Aspire, ANTC, Wood Lane, Stanmore, Middlesex, HA7 5AP.