For those who know Darren West, you will know he is no stranger to taking on a running challenge, but I was incredibly humbled when he told me about his latest endeavour, to raise funds for the Alastair Mackenzie memorial fund.

Throughout September Darren is ‘running the date’, that means running and adding an extra mile every day, all the way up to 30 miles on the last day of the month! He will complete a total 465 miles in 30 days! that’s nearly 18 marathons! with the last 5 on consecutive days!

I’m sure you will agree this is an epic feat for anyone, not least someone who might be approaching a certain 60th milestone. You can follow along with his progress on https://www.strava.com/athletes/7729471 though you’ll have to be up early to catch him! Darren runs in the very early hours to be home by 6am, see his family off to work and school, then start his day jobs! But for such an important cause Darren is hoping to make a difference in memory of his close friend.

The Alastair Mackenzie memorial fund was started in April 2022 by his wife Christina who has been working with local charities and groups to help raise awareness of suicide prevention and improve the mental health resources available to those in need.

Let’s help Darren to make a difference and support him in this incredible challenge – All donations are very much appreciated