A COUNTY man is preparing to put his best foot forward to complete the epic challenge of running four half marathons and the London Marathon in aid of a mental health charity.
Peter Riddleston, who is the father of a student at Pershore High School, is taking on the gruelling feat for Mind, the UK’s leading charity in raising awareness and providing support to those who suffer from mental health problems.
Having already taken part in the Silverstone Half Marathon last Sunday (March 12), Peter now sets his sights on the Worcester Half Marathon in May, the Cheltenham Challenge Half Marathon in June and the Eden Project Half Marathon in October.
But first, the Inkberrow resident must take on the famous London Marathon in April – which has always been a personal goal of his.
“From as long as I can remember, I’ve always wanted to run the London marathon. I remember watching it as a kid on TV and thinking that looks amazing,” said Peter.
“It’s been on my bucket list for awhile and I’m looking forward to ticking it off. If I can complete it in around four and a half hours I’ll be happy, but it’s all about soaking in the experience and atmosphere.
“Training has been going really well and I’ve been running up to 18 miles to prepare myself. I completed the Silverstone Half Marathon in two hours and six minutes, which wasn’t too bad considering I had a virus.
“Mind is a charity very close to my heart and I hope to beat my £2,000 fund-raising target through this challenge. I’ve already raised more than £1,800, with more than £1,200 coming from a quiz night I recently held at a pub near my village.
“At the end of the night I even received a special recorded message from Worcester Warriors skipper Donncha O’Callaghan wishing me luck!
“I’m training hard, both at the gym and around the Worcestershire countryside and can’t wait to take part in the races, as they’re in aid of such a worthy cause,” he added.
Visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/PeteRiddleston to donate to Peter’s challenge or for more information about Mind.
