A dedicated runner has run a half marathon every day for the month of May and raised over £2400 for charity.
Mark Cotton from Coton Green has covered 406 miles over 31 days for Simon’s Heroes, a charity which helps children with life-limiting illnesses lead more independent and fulfilling lives.
“It has been a challenge”, said Mark. “Some days were tougher than others and I have had to endure some really warm weather, which has really tested my limits.
“I have been a member of the charity for a couple of years now and, having witnessed the amazing work it carries out, I wanted to give something back. I have received some fantastic support from its members, which has helped carry me through to the finish. Some have joined me on a few runs, socially distanced of course, and have even planned new routes for me to try to help keep it as fresh as possible.”
Mark achieved his challenge around his full-time job at One Plastics Group in Tamworth, where he works from 6am-4pm, 5 days a week. Despite his gruelling schedule, he still managed to complete most of his runs in under 2 hours!
Mark’s fundraising efforts were further boosted after he completed his feat, when his bosses, Ashley Jones and Dave Sheridan, advised him that the company would match what he had already raised!
“I completed some of the last few runs at 3am to avoid the stifling afternoon heat. My final run started in Longdon, near Rugeley and ended in Tamworth Castle Grounds on Sunday morning.
“I have been truly blown away by the support I have received from my friends, family and fellow charity members. The generous contribution from my employer was the icing on the cake of this incredible journey, which I couldn’t have done without the encouragement from my amazing support network.”
Author: C Abbott.
