Wiganer completes month-long lockdown running challenge

A runner has completed a month-long lockdown challenge of completing a different 10k run in his neighbourhood every day.

Lee Clark, who leads Standish’s Team ACF running club, ran for a total of 34 hours and 20 minutes in June.

He covered a distancing of 219.8 miles as part of the Wigan and Leigh Run Every Day challenge.

Lots of people in Standish suggested routes for Lee to take on his mammoth challenge - and he raised £225 for the Hospice on the way.

Lee, who himself is from Standish, said: “First of all I’d like to thank the Wigan and Leigh Running Community, WLRC, for organising this event, it has been an incredible experience for myself and many other local runners.

“Jodie Danner, Jessica Bateson, Phil Griffiths, Steve Shovelton and James Pentland #teamgreen have done an amazing job of constantly motivating and supporting around 100 runners from all over the Wigan and Leigh area for 30 days.

“A massive well done to everyone who took part in the challenge. It’s been great reading your posts and seeing all of your comments this month, you should all be really proud of yourselves.”

His challenge saw him stretching his legs through the beautiful surrounds of Haigh Woodland Park, around Worthington Lakes, over the (very steep) Parbold Hill and around the countryside that takes in The Crown pub.

He has also recommend picturesque routes that he has taken in order to make other people aware of what may sometimes be hidden or under-appreciated beauty spots.

Throughout the challenge, Lee who said he is “proud” of where he lives has posted photos on social media to show off to villagers and the wider world.

He said: “The challenge has made me realise how beautiful certain areas in Standish are. I’ve also been introduced to stunning places that I’d never heard of before, such as Elnup Wood, Hic Bibi and Chisnall.

“A massive thanks to Standish Voice and all of the Standish Voice followers for the well wishes, the route suggestions and support, you have been a great source of inspiration and motivation.

“Finally, With the help of Loft Print we have managed to produce around 70 Lockdown/WALRED T-shirts and Vests for participants of the challenge.

“For every T-shirt and vest purchased by 10 #teamacf members and over 60 #teamgreen members, AC Forklifts Ltd has donated £2.50 to Wigan and Leigh Hospice.

“We’ve added a little extra to the final amount, therefore AC Forklifts Ltd has donated a total of £225 to Wigan and Leigh Hospice.

He added: “If anyone is interested in buying a Team ACF #lockdown2020 T-shirt or vest, then please comment below.

“They are £10 each and AC Forklifts Ltd will contribute a little more to the final total.”