Dad to run From London to Bristol for children's hospice

Next year Paul Dennett turns 44 and will mark the occasion by running 112 miles in just 24 hours .

Dubbed ‘The Long Run Home’ Paul will be pounding the streets during the weekend of February 6-7 and is asking for donations in support of Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW).

Paul has a history of putting his body on the line for CHSW, a cause very close to his heart. Over the years he has taken part in some gruelling events and has raised over £26,700 to date.

In May 2017, Paul organised and took part in a 3-day ultra-marathon - The Bristol Brutal. This consisted of a six-mile swim and a 90-mile bike ride on day one, a 171-mile bike ride on day two and a double marathon of 52 miles on day three.

It was whilst training for The Bristol Brutal that Paul had the idea to set up a fitness group to serve the community. Active Soul UK was born and contributes 50 per cent of its monthly membership fees to CHSW.

Last year Paul also took part in a challenge where he climbed the three highest peaks in the UK, cycling in between each climb.

Frances Kenneally, community fundraiser at CHSW, said: “It costs around £11million to run all three hospice sites each year and we rely almost entirely on voluntary contributions. We are so grateful for everything Paul has done and continues to do to support short and precious lives.”

To donate go to virginmoneygiving.com/TheLongRunHome

Alex Bright, 50 from Emersons Green, is a member of Active Soul and has known Paul for many years.

She has been supported by CHSW’s Charlton Farm along with son Jack, 13, and daughter, Lotte, 14 for the past ten years.

Jack has Pallister-Killian syndrome, an extremely rare, life-limiting illness and requires round the clock care.

Alex is urging people to donate to Paul’s fundraising challenge.

“Our wheels would’ve completely fallen off many, many years ago if we hadn’t had the hospice. They have been there through many of life’s ups and downs," she said.