If you have seen a giant chicken running through the streets of Epsom recently and questioned your sanity then fear not - there really is a mansize rooster on the loose.

While many people take part in the London Marathon in all kinds of bizarre get up every year, Tadworth resident John Melbourne wants to be top of the pecking order.

The 33-year-old is hoping to set a new Guinness World Record for fastest marathon in a full body animal costume when he sets off dressed a chicken on Sunday, April 13.

In doing so, he hopes to raise money for the British Hen Welfare Trust, from which John has already adopted six ex-commerical laying hens.

But John, a seasoned marathon runner who has competed in more than 30 events over the world, will need to be on top of his game if he is to break the existing record of three hours and 31 minutes.

He will be egged on around the capital by his wife, Nellie.

He said: "Training is going well despite a near miss with a lamppost when I initially struggled to see out of the eye holes.

"If the reaction I receive from the crowds in London is anything like the response I get running through Epsom then it will be great fun.”

Naomi Oxborough, community fundraiser for the British Hen Welfare Trust said: “What John has done to raise the profile of the charity is incredible and we wish him all the best for his latest challenge.

"The rules for the Guinness World Record are quite strict and overheating is his biggest concern. "For once let’s hope for not too warm a day."

To sponsor John, visit his Just Giving Page

For more information about the British Hen welfare Trust, click here.