As many of you know, in the midst of lockdown at the end of last year I decided that I needed to raise money to support those affected by the pandemic and take on my biggest challenge to date.

My challenge was to run the LEJOG virtual challenge from Land’s End to John O’Groats within 365 days - a total distance of 1,744.2km (1,087 miles) in aid of charity.

The Covid pandemic and the various lockdowns have affected (and continue to affect) people both physically and mentally, therefore mental health support is needed more than ever. It has also been an incredibly difficult period for the NHS and charities, with support and funds being stretched to breaking point. I therefore decided to run in support of a mental health charity, which is especially close to my heart because my mother sadly suffers from severe depression and a number of friends have also had mental health struggles. I chose The Lucy Rayner Foundation, which is a small charity where funds go directly to supporting those in need. They offer counselling services to anyone, with no waiting list and guaranteed help within 48 hours. Please see a link here for more information.

I’m delighted to report that I crossed the virtual finish line in John O’Groats this morning - 19th November - completing the challenge 42 days ahead of schedule. A few highlights:

• 1,744.2km (1,087 miles) in 323 days
• Averaged 5.4km per day (37.8km per week and 164.25km per month) since 1^st January
• Averaged 7.6km across 231 running days
• 51 runs over 10km
• Longest run 15.7km
• Shortest run 4.2km
• 2 injuries

I appreciate that you may well be asked regularly for donations but if you feel the effort and/or cause are worth it then please donate as much as you can! 

Thank you to everyone who has so kindly donated – it is hugely appreciated!

With my sincere thanks and best wishes

Richard