Christians Against Poverty (CAP), which operates through a growing number of church-based debt counselling centres, announced the ‘Ultimate Challenge’ as the recession pushes more and more people into unmanageable debt.

In addition to its existing 102 debt counselling centres, CAP aims to open another 60 in the next 12 months, doubling its rate of expansion and underpinning what will be the most dramatic growth the charity has witnessed in its 14 year history.

"In doubling our rate of expansion over the next year, we will be able to help an additional 3,500 people per year with our free, award-winning service," said CAP founder John Kirkby.

"In such desperate times, this is a tremendous boost to all those living under the burden of unmanageable debt and I look forward to enabling more and more churches who are waiting to open centres to reach their communities."

Mr Kirby confirmed that he would be running a total of 84 miles over a 30-hour period to help raise the necessary funds for the expansion and the ongoing work of the charity.

Two colleagues will also run with him, hoping to raise more than £750,000. With over £500,000 already raised, the ‘Ultimate Challenge’ has quickly become the charity’s single biggest fundraising initiative.

Following a gift offering among employees, an unprecedented £210,000 was given and pledged in support, including proceeds from the sale of a house. Following this, the charity contacted supporters with a total of £520,000 being quickly raised through the generosity of many individuals. With £230,000 still to be raised before the target is met, however, the charity is continuing to appeal for further donations to reach its ultimate target.

"Running 84 miles over a 30-hour period seems like madness to some, but we really believe that God has placed us here for such a time as this. We can’t just stand by, we have to give it our all as we are surrounded by such a massive need," said Mr Kirkby.

"Whilst we are almost in shock at how generous people have been in supporting the ‘Ultimate Challenge’ there is still a way to go to generate the necessary funds to underline our expansion."