Dragons’ Den star Duncan Bannatyne has challenged athletes to join him in racing up 42 floors of a tower to raise money for charity.

The Vertical Rush event, held at Tower 42, the second tallest building in the city of London, is the biggest tower-running event in the UK and requires competitors to race up the 920 stairs individually or in teams. The charity event, raising money for Shelter, takes place on February 25.

Duncan, who took part in the inaugural event last year, is hoping to get close to the average race time of eight minutes and four seconds. The Gladiator Tempest and Blue Peter’s Andrew Akinwolere took part in last year’s tower-run, when 600 runners raised more than £165,000 for Shelter.

Duncan said: “I think Shelter’s cause is incredibly important, finding a safe and secure home for everyone, and I hope this year I will help them smash their fundraising target of £250,000.

“Vertical Rush is a challenging event, but the sense of satisfaction when you get to the top is unbeatable. If I can do it, anyone can!”