Eddie Izzard has had to abandon his gruelling challenge to run a marathon each day for 27 days in South Africa due to "medical complications".

Eddie had finished four of the 26-mile runs when he was forced to halt his tribute to former South African president Nelson Mandela.

In an online message to his fans, he said: "I set out to run 27 marathons in 27 days as a tribute to Nelson Mandela and his 27 years spent in prison.

"Having completed four marathons, unfortunately, I have had to put my attempt on hold due to unforeseen medical complications that have arisen due to a multitude of factors including severe terrain, humidity and altitude.

"But I wish to say that my attempt is not over and I will return to South Africa and run the 27 marathons and finish this story."

He added: "I owe that to Nelson Mandela, who has inspired the world to struggle and succeed no matter what obstacles are thrown at us."

Photo: © www.eddieizzard.com