A DAD-of-two is set to complete a year-long challenge, having run five miles every day for 12 months with his pet whippet.

Steven Johnson, from Whalley, embarked on the unusual challenge on September 1, 2014, to raise funds for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust after being inspired by his friend’s daughter, Amelia Dickinson, 13, who has the condition.

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The 41-year-old has become a familiar sight clocking up the miles alongside his trusty whippet Betty and is set to run 1,865 miles by the end of the month.

Steven, a self-employed consultant, said: “It’s been brilliant, although it’s been easier for Betty than for me.

“Countless times I’ve waved at, cars have sounded their horns and people have even donated to me while running.

“We’ve done different routes around Whalley and the countryside and the only time I’ve not done the run is a couple of days when I injured my calf but on those days I did five miles on an indoor rowing machine, with Betty looking on.”

Steven who lives on Limefield Avenue, said: “The first few days were tough as my legs hadn’t been conditioned to what I was putting them through but I’m used to it now.

“I wanted to make it a daily thing as Amelia, who inspired me to do this, doesn’t have any choice with her daily routine of very uncomfortable physical manipulation.

He added: “If she’s having a bad day she can’t fob it off.”

One of the unexpected results of the challenge is that an informal running club has formed, with 30 or 40 people joining Steven on a weekly basis and calling themselves Running For CF.

“The support has been fantastic,” said Steven.

“My original target was £1,000 but I’m now set to break through £10,000 by September 1.”

Steven will be embarking on his final run on Bank Holiday Monday, August 31, at noon, beginning at the Foxfields Hotel in Billington.

Many are expected to join them as Steven and Betty complete the challenge.