ONE of the world's greatest ever endurance athletes will be leading some of Stratford's most determined young people through the town's Millennium Volunteer Project, which begins next week.

Former Para Paddy Doyle, who is based at the Depot offices at Stratford High School, is running the project for 16 to 24-year-olds, which sees them build their confidence, leadership and problem solving skills by helping out in the community.

All people completing the programme will receive the Millennium Diploma, which will not only help young people boost their personalities, but also their future by offering them something impressive to put on their CV.

Mr Doyle has been involved in youth work and training for several years as well as training for the gruelling endurance events, which sees him complete a four to five mile run every day as well as several punishing fitness exercises.

As well as running the project, the holder of 105 regional, national, European and World endurance records, is also in training for his last ever season of endurance events, which will include a competition for the most press ups completed using the back of the hands only in one-and-a-half-hours in Birmingham in March!