Marathon effort to beat bullies

BULLYING is a serious issue in schools and in society in general but one determined individual is playing his part in tackling this problem.

Ben Smith is taking part in the 401 challenge where his efforts will hopefully tackle bullying and raise awareness at the same time.

Smith has currently completed 85 of his 401 marathons and has accumulated over 2000 miles and that distance will increase once he arrives in Macclesfield on January 11, which will be the 133rd marathon.

“I will be undertaking a World Record attempt which will see me run 401 marathons in 401 consecutive days around 309 different locations of the UK mainland,” he said.

“The challenge will aim to raise both awareness of the issue of bullying in our society along with £250,000 for two amazing charities dedicated to tackling bullying.

“The two charities are called ‘Stonewall’ and ‘Kidscape’.

“Both of these charities work tirelessly to support award-winning initiatives which really get to the heart of bullying in our UK schools and society in all its forms.

“The £250,000 raised through generous donations from UK businesses and the public will help support both of these charities carry on the amazing work they do.”

Smith will be visiting Macclesfield twice in 2016 with his first marathon taking place in January, followed by another attempt in April where he will look to build on the £14,881 raised so far.

He has the support from the Macclesfield Harriers as well as a local primary school and Club AstraZeneca in the bid to raise awareness and ensure Smith’s effort goes smoothly.

The current plan is for Ben to run a double lap of the Macclesfield half marathon and his team will need help with food, accommodation as well as therapy and the Harriers will be showing full support throughout the marathon.

Neil Gunn, a runner as well as a group leader for the Harriers, wanted to show his support for Smith and hopes the community can do much of the same.

“Anybody that can run 401 marathons, one every day, deserves support,” he said.

“We are providing food, accommodation and we will have the club runners with him for the whole run.”

There’s still plenty of time for the public to show their support by donating.

“They can donate to his charity or be on the route to cheer as he goes past.

“If anybody wants to run a short section of the route with him then they can do so,” Neil explained.

To find out more about the 401 challenge and to donate to the charities, visit www. the401challenge. co.uk to show your support.

‘The aim is to raise awareness of bullying along with £250,000 for two amazing charities’