Keen Northampton runner sets himself challenge of clocking up 1,254 miles in five months for children's hospice

A Northampton man has set himself the challenge of running 1,254 miles in five months to raise money for the East Midlands’ only children’s hospice.

After recently rekindling his love for running, Mark Wilson has decided to take on the mammoth task for Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People.

The 49-year-old aims to raise £1,000 for the Loughborough hospice and has been overwhelmed by the support of his friends and family.

“After taking part in charity boxing matches, I’ve recently rediscovered my love of running, and as I have got older I’ve set myself challenges and felt compelled to raise money for a worthwhile cause at the same time," he said.

"I chose Rainbows because they are a local charity who do amazing things. It is an unbelievable place and the team are so lovely.”

Due to races being cancelled because of coronavirus, Mark turned to virtual events like the 4x4x48 Challenge, a four mile run every four hours, for 48 hours for a total of 48 miles - he did 50 miles for good measure.

Then in June, Mark embarked on an ultra-marathon, completing 39.3 miles cross country in seven hours and 52 minutes - his task for July was to run three marathons in three days.

But they all make the bigger target of running the off-road distance of Land’s End to John O’Groats - 1,254 miles - which he hopes to finish by the end of September.

“I have enjoyed all of the events for different reasons. I found the three marathons the hardest, but I have enjoyed challenging myself," he said.

"I just need to complete my miles now and hopefully raise more money for Rainbows.”

Neil Swift, from the hospice, said it would simply not be able to afford the care and support for 450 children and young people with life-limited illnesses it provides without the fundraising of people like Mark.

"We would all like to thank Mark so much for his incredible efforts and wish him the best of luck with the remainder of his challenge," he added.

To donate, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/ultrabobby7.