Loughborough man takes on 5km a day challenge for a month

A man has challenged himself to run 5km (3.1 miles) per day for a month in memory of his father.

Shaun Wilkes, of Loughborough, is raising money for Loros, where his father was cared for before he died from a brain tumour aged 54.

The challenge began on 15 April and will finish on his birthday on 14 May.

The 32-year-old said: "I took up running during lockdown and really enjoyed it, so I thought why not continue running while raising funds."

Mr Wilkes said he was juggling the challenge alongside a full-time job in finance, managing a men's football team, and running a sports massage business.

Even though he was young when his father, David Macfarlane, died in 2000, he said he remembers everyone at the hospice being "so nice" and "warm".

He said: "It is always difficult to talk about. I was young, but at least I can do something to remember him."

He took on the same challenge three years ago and raised £2,500 for Loros.

This time he is also raising money for Derbyshire, Leicestershire, and Rutland Air Ambulance (DLRAA), the Samaritans, and Rainbows hospice.

He added: "Generally, I am feeling good - it's just a lot of wear and tear on the legs.

"I think the challenging thing is if I hit a mental wall. But I am feeling positive.

"My legs will be on fire by the end of it, but it will be worth it, I am sure."

He has asked friends and family to join him on runs when they can.

Mr Wilkes has set a fundraising target of £1,000, but would like to raise more, and will be splitting the money he makes equally between the charities.

Follow BBC East Midlands on Facebook, on X, or on Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected] or via WhatsApp on 0808 100 2210.