A WIRRAL man has set himself a challenge to run 1,500 miles in 365 before his 40th birthday for Clatterbridge Cancer Charity. 

Andrew Okell, 39, from Wallasey started his journey on March 30, 2017 and will finish on March 29, 2018 – a day before his 40th birthday.

So far, Andrew has surpassed his original fundraising target by 1325% - raising a total of £1,325.

The Clatterbridge Cancer Charity is the only dedicated charity for patients and research at the Clatterbridge Cancer Centre.

The money raised by Andrew will help improve patient experience, fund vital research, the latest therapies and innovations in cancer treatment.

The challenge called 1,500 before 40 has seen the keen runner travel around the world totting up the miles on his clock.

He told the Globe: “From age 39 to 40 I decided that I would run 1,500 miles to raise awareness and funds for the Clatterbridge Cancer Charity.

“Many miles will be on my own and some in races. If you see this big lump pounding the streets in a green vest give me a shout.

“I have run in England, Wales, France, Spain, Malta and Italy since late March and took part in the Rock’n’roll Las Vegas 5K and marathon.

“I came 77th from 6,983 runners in the Las Vegas 5K. I knew I wouldn’t manage a high position in the marathon but it was good fun and acted as a warm up nonetheless.

“I have now smashed 1,000 miles and my marathon treble is complete.

“For all who have ran with me, sponsored me, shared my posts and supported I am eternally grateful.

“We have now raised a whopping £1,325.”

Before the challenge Andrew said if he surpassed £1,250 he would go on the highest thrill rides in the U.S on top of The Stratosphere Hotel at 1,149 feet.

“I said if my fundraising for The Clatterbridge Cancer Charity reached more than £1,250 I would ride all of the thrill rides on top of The Stratosphere Hotel.

“So thank you all for the amazingly generous donations - I am so humbled and grateful and a huge thank you to my colleagues at Prima.”

So far Andrew has run 1,001.08 miles across Europe and the US and in his last six weeks he will take part in marathons in Chester and Venice to reach his target of 1,500 miles.

To support Andrew and raise cash for The Clatterbridge Cancer Charity visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/1500before40