A multiple-marathon man is celebrating after his seven-in-seven challenge earned his chosen charity thousands of pounds.
Barnard Castle School games teacher and semi-professional rugby player Chris McTurk completed a marathon a day for a week despite carrying an injury from half-way through his challenge.
The winger with Darlington Mowden Park RFC was delighted to raise £4,717, well in excess of his £2,500 target, which will help The Three Bears Foundation, which funds medical research and supports families affected by pancreatic cancer.
The 29-year-old ran and walked the 182-miles in between his teaching commitments, completing a half marathon before school and another afterwards during the week, and a full marathon on the first and last days of the week-long challenge.
Pupils and staff members also joined him for portions of his challenge, offering moral support.
He said: “I suspect I tore my meniscus midway through but managed to complete the runs thanks to the support I received from students, staff, friends and family.
“I went to school with Three Bears’ founder Chris Burn, whose mother tragically died from pancreatic cancer, so I couldn’t let them down. I’d also like to say a massive thank you to everyone who donated as this provided me with huge motivation knowing the proceeds make such a difference to people’s lives.
“The school and my club have also been brilliant in supporting me in my training and allowing me the time to do this.”