A few months ago, we caught up with Paul to hear his story...

Paul, 64, married to Helen, is chief executive of a community finance development institution and now a keen runner. He revealed how he first got into running and why this next test means so much to him.

“In my mid 50's, after being diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes, I decided to do something to improve my health. Sporadic attempts at gym and running in adult life fell by the wayside and I gradually bulked up, peaking at 16 stone with a 42-inch waist.

“My journey into increasing my physical activity to reduce weight and improve my health started when I saw The Wrekin Road Runners advertise a beginners’ group. The first year was really tough until I saw someone running with his dog at Telford parkrun and discovered the exhilaration of Canicross.”

Following this discovery, Paul set up Shropshire Canicross, which now has almost 500 members. And this coupled with regular group high intensity training gym sessions has helped Paul get down to 12 stone.

“I feel so much more energised these days and love running with local running clubs or with my dogs - my life has completely changed,” he explained. But what is driving him to complete one of the hardest challenges, running 26.2 miles, in just a three months’ time?

“I am fearful of running a marathon as I am not a long distance runner. I am comfortable with 5k and 10k distances but need a new goal to stretch myself. Running the Virgin Money London marathon will be a super stretch for me but also demonstrate that whatever you set your mind to, you can achieve.

Well he did it! 

And not only that he has lost weight, feels healthier than ever and is Type 2 Diabetes is in remission, what a remarkable achievement.

And of course, Paul also raised over £1500 which will now be used to support ongoing Energize projects.