A MAN challenged himself to run four miles every four hours for 48 hours – ahead of attempting to cover 100 kilometres in a single day for a mental health charity.

Tony Stopforth, of Wentworth Station, Hoyland Common, set himself the target of running 100km from Hoyland to Bamburgh Castle in only one day for charity MIND in June.

In preparation, the 41-year-old vowed to take on the ‘4x4x48’ challenge in a bid to raise awareness of mental health.

Last Wednesday, Tony set off at 8am on his first run.

He said: “This pandemic has left a lot of people reeling and struggling to cope with the aftermath.

“That’s why I think now is the perfect time to do something to raise money and show my support for MIND.

“Every year one in four people will experience a mental health problem, but hundreds of thousands are still struggling.

“I find my release through exercise, especially running, and through this I want to raise mental health awareness.

“I want people to feel they are not on their own and that people are out there for them who are willing to listen, help and support.

“If we are to take anything from the Covid-19 pandemic, it is to be kind to ourselves and be kind to others.”

Ahead of his challenge, Tony set up an online fundraiser where he hopes to raise £1,000 after his 100km run – the total already sits at almost £400.

To donate to Tony’s fundraiser, click here.