A PORTHMADOG running group came out in force to support a runner who has challenged himself to complete 401 marathons in 401 consecutive days.

Ben Smith, 33, from Bristol, began the gruelling 401 Challenge on 1 September, 2015, and aims to complete the record-breaking adventure on 5 October carrying out one marathon a day in different locations across the UK, running the distance of Bristol to Sydney in the process.

Ben reached Porthmadog on 23 August and was supported by local running group Rhedwyr Hebog who ran part of his journey with him.

Richard Jones from Rhedwyr Hebog said: “It was such an awesome day. A brilliant bunch of people turned up to run with Ben on his 358th run of 401 marathons.

“We had plenty of laughs along the way and a run in glorious weather on a fantastic route, mapped by Gonks Hughes.”

During the 401 Challenge, Ben is aiming to raise £250,000 for Stonewall and Kidscape charities, so far over £130,000 has been collected, and increase awareness of the harmful effects of bullying.

At the age of 10 Ben was sent to boarding school where he suffered bullying. In his late teens Ben had a nervous breakdown and tried to take his own life. He continued to suffer depression for many years after leaving school and university.

As he returned to health he decided to join a running club and he developed a passion for the sport and found it built his self-esteem.

For more information on Ben’s challenge visit www.the401challenge.co.uk

See this week’s Arfon/Dwyfor edition of the Cambrian News for the full story