Blackburn man fails to regain world record at Ewood Park

Andy Maxfield, 54, attempted the 24-hour challenge at Ewood Park on November 17 to raise money and awareness for Blackburn charity Nightsafe, on the same night as its Big Sleep Out event.

Andy initially set the lawnmower record in 2019, covering 57 miles in 24 hours, but this was since beaten by an Australian who covered 77 miles.

Despite making good progress, he decided to call it quits just nine hours into the challenge.

Andy said: “I ended up stopping. Even though I was ahead of schedule it got to about 6pm and I was three or four laps ahead and my legs were really sore.

"To continue from then to the end and to beat the record I wouldn’t have been able to have any breaks.

"I would have had to average 15 laps an hour for the next 15 hours.

Andy previously set the world record in 2019 but was beaten by a man from Australia (Image: NQ)

“I could’ve carried but then I’d have probably ended up quitting partway through the night.

"Considering last time I ended up in hospital, I thought health is more important than continuing.

“I think trying anything similar to this [in the future] is probably a bad idea, though my daughter said she might do it in the future to try and get the record back in the Maxfield name.

“So far we’ve raised just over £2,300. It’s part of the Big Sleepout. The money will be split between Nightsafe and the Blackburn Rovers Community Trust.

"Nightsafe help young people who are at risk of being homeless. When you’re 16 and homeless you’re very vulnerable and you can have people who take advantage of you, so at least they offer them a safe environment and give them choices in life.”

The challenge took place on the same night as Nightsafe’s Big Sleep Out event.

Nicola Roscoe, operations manager for Nightsafe, said ahead of the event: “The Big Sleep Out is just one night of experiencing homelessness and what it is like to be out on the streets, which is sadly an unfortunate an everyday occurrence for some people.

“People come together and give up the luxuries we are take for granted for one night, to experience sleeping outside.

Andy does not think he will attempt the record again, but says his daughter could give it a go (Image: NQ)

“Unfortunately, homelessness is not going away, we are seeing more youth homelessness every day and the need for support is greater than ever.

“Nightsafe would not exist is it wasn’t the kindness and support from local businesses and people.”

Andy’s fundraising efforts have already seen him exceed his target of £2,000, but the page is still open for anyone who is able to donate.

To do so, visit the JustGiving page at www.justgiving.com/page/mow24hours