BOURNEMOUTH man Dave Newman has completed a challenge of running 50 half marathons in 50 days.

On May 20, Dave completed his gruelling challenge which was a result of free time during lockdown.

Dave explained: "I couldn't work in the first week of lockdown so I started running half marathons everyday. I got a really good response from people so I thought I'd keep going. I decided to go until I couldn't stop, like Forrest Gump. I had no intention of setting myself a challenge, it just developed."

Many people, locally and internationally, have reached out to Dave detailing how he has inspired them to run and challenge themselves.

Undertaking this daily challenge was beneficial for Dave's physical and mental health, helping him to maintain a positive mindset for throughout these difficult times.

He said: "I always used to come last in school running races and am not the strongest runner, but anyone can do it. People only see the end result but hard work and dedication pays off.

"I'm so relieved that I completed it but I am gutted that it's over."

Next year, Dave hopes to do more marathons in aid of charity.