Newton-le-Willows plumber to run from John O'Groats to Lands End

Ellis Anderson, a 25-year-old self-employed plumber, set off on his journey from John O’Groats to Lands End on Monday, April 1 at 8am and aims to complete the run in only 27 days.

Supported by his father, Allan, travelling behind him in a motorhome, Ellis is documenting his journey on social media and is raising money for two charities close to his heart, Andy’s Man Club and Young Minds.

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The challenge has been a long-held dream for Ellis to complete (Image: Ellis Anderson)
With the ‘Top to Bottom Challenge’ spanning over 850 miles, Ellis is due to run through his hometown of Newton-Le-Willows on Wednesday, April 17.

He has already reached 32 miles after nine days and has raised just over £2,000 of his £40,000 target.

In a similar vein to Russ Cook, A.K.A the 'Hardest Geezer', who recently completed his run across the length of Africa, Ellis is attempting to run 31 miles a day for 27 consecutive days, and is prepared to face all weathers and obstacles.

However, he is determined to complete the mission, share his story and raise awareness of mental health along the way.

Ellis is attempting to run the 850 miles in less than a month (Image: Ellis Anderson)
Ellis said: “The stigma around speaking about feelings needs to be broken down, everyone deserves accessible support which works for them.

“Throughout the challenge I will be sharing my own story, discussing my own experience of bullying and the impact it had on my mental health.

“I’ll be sharing how speaking out and accessing support allowed me to be in the position I’m in today.

“I’m in a place now where I’m ready to give back and help the charities that work tirelessly to help people like me.”

Ellis will be raising money and awareness for mental health charities (Image: Ellis Anderson)
As well as working full time, Ellis has been training for the past 12 months. He has been waking up at 5am, going to work, and then training again in the evening.

Ellis has chosen to support Andy’s Man Club due to his personal experiences, suffering from depression and needing to take time out of school due to bullying, and Young Minds, who help support young people with their mental health.

Louise Anderson, his mother, added: “I have no words. We can’t believe he’s doing it, to be honest.

“It’s been in the pipeline forever. His aim is to help people overcome mental health issues and show them that you can move forward in life.”

You can support Ellis on his journey by donating to his fundraiser here, the money raised will be split equally between the two charities. You can also follow his progress on his social media channels.