A Marlow man completed a gruelling running challenge in a bid to raise thousands of pounds for charity.

Daniel McKay had only ever run 10k before he took on the Thames Path Challenge on September 10 – a 100k run from Putney Bridge to Henley.

After months of hard work and training, he managed to beat his 15 hour target, crossing the finish line after 14 hours and 30 minutes - coming in 58th out of over 3000 runners.

The punishing run took him through mostly off road and uneven terrain but he preserved in a bid to raise money for Helen & Douglas House, a charity that provides hospice care and support for terminally ill children, young adults and their families across Bucks.

Daniel decided to take on the run because his partner, Kizzie Broadhurst, is the assistant manager of the Marlow charity shop and has seen the “fantastic” work they do to help families.

He said: “I took on the Thames path challenge because I wanted to not only push myself to achieve something many people wouldn't be able to do, but  also wanted to raise as much money for Helen and Douglas House.

“This run really did push me physically, emotionally and mentally to my limits and beyond. But I got through it with the help of some fantastic support from my friends and family.”

So far, Daniel has managed to smash his £1,000 fundraising target to raise more than £1,300.

Sue Barnes, Community Fundraiser at Helen & Douglas House added: “The hard work Daniel has put in to training for and completing this challenge is astounding. We are so grateful for all of his work raising money for our charity, which enables us to continue to support local families, who face the most difficult of circumstances.”

To donate, visit Daniel’s fundraising page at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Daniel-Mckay78.