40 marathons from top of UK to bottom for dad

A WOMAN is running 40 marathons across the length of the UK in memory of her father.

Menna Evans, 38, left, is aiming to complete 40 consecutive marathons from John O’Groats to Lands End over the next six weeks.

Now on the sixth day of the challenge, Menna still has more than 1,000 miles to cover and will climb 75,000 feet – more than two and half times the height of Everest – in total.

Menna, who is originally from Cardiff but now lives in Llanfynydd in Carmarthenshire, said she was inspired to complete the challenge after her father Dave died in March last year.

“My dad had his retirement party eight years ago,” Menna said.

Unfortunately, Mr Evans’ health started to deteriorate soon after the party, and he spent the next few years undergoing several hip operations and suffered a stroke.

“I started running just after dad died,” Menna said. “I hadn’t run much before that and in the last 16 months I managed to complete a few races. I have gone from a slightly hyper couch potato to ultra runner.”

Menna said she hopes to complete the challenge in about six weeks, running six days and resting for one each week.

To start her journey, she scattered some of her father’s ashes at John O’Groats, and will stop at Offa’s Dyke to scatter some there. At the finish, some more ashes will be scattered at Land’s End.

“Running has really helped with the grieving process and, I hate the phrase, but it’s been an incredible journey,” Menna said.

“I have met some great people and I have seen some fantastic places. I just hope I can pass that message on to other people. That would be great.”

Menna is aiming to raise £1,000 for BBC Children in Need. Visit mydonate. bt.com/fundraisers/mennajogle