Seven marathons in seven days
AN Elstree schoolteacher has run seven marathons in seven days in aid of a Thatchambased children’s mental health charity.
Between March 22 and March 28, Luke Owens clocked up 184 miles.
Even before embarking upon the feat, he had raised over £13,000 for the Charlie Waller Trust, which provides education and training around the issue of young people’s mental health
Mr Owens was inspired directly by his time at Elstree School in Woolhampton, which, he says, has fostered in him a passion for the issue.
Mr Owens said: “With the impact of the pandemic and the recent re-opening of schools, I think mental health is a hugely important issue for all our young people.
“Since I said I was undertaking this challenge so many people have come up to me and spoken about how mental health has affected them or their close friends or family.
“I aim to raise funds to support the incredible work of the Charlie
Waller Trust, along with awareness of the importance of supporting good mental health for children and young people.”
His route for the marathons took in an array of local sights and landmarks, including Madejski Stadium, Newbury Racecourse and the Thames Path.
Charlie Waller Trust chief executive, Clare Stafford, said: “This really is a super-human fundraising effort, and we are so
grateful to Luke for supporting us.
“Luke is shining a welcome spotlight on the importance of mental health for all our children and young people.
“It is just this sort of positive action that will inspire children with hope and optimism, so vital to their mental wellbeing at this time.”
To donate towards Mr Owens’ cause, visit bit.ly/3cmXiB4