Cliff's Run Stopped By Illness

Potato farmer and legendary distance runner CLiff Young, has abandoned his third attempt at running around Australia after being diagnosed with prostrate cancer.

Young, who recently celebrated his 79th birthday, was forced to retire from the 16,500km just days after the start.

His companions for the run, twins Paula and Bridgette Powers, will go on, with Young to travel alongside in a bus after an operation.

The twins mother, Helen Power, said Young had been diagnosed with cancer before setting out but had kept it a secret.