Blackburn runner Nadeem Vali took on his "toughest" challenge yet, a 100-mile run in 24 hours to raise money for humanitarian aid in Gaza.
The 34-year-old, who previously ran from London to Blackburn to raise awareness and support for people in Palestine, set off from Corporation Park at 1pm on Saturday, October 18.
He was surrounded by supporters carrying Palestinian flags and banners to cheer him on.
His route followed a 12-mile loop between Blackburn and Preston, which he completed eight times over the weekend.
Each loop included three key stops at 2.5 miles, 8.5 miles, and 12 miles, with a main rest point at Chaiwala before returning to Corporation Park.
Families and children joined the first and final mile of each loop, walking alongside Nadeem to show support.
"The reason for choosing this type of fundraiser was to involve as many people as possible to take part, including our younger generation.
"We reached out to local community members to arrange for our youngsters to get involved.
"Whilst I did a combination of walking and running, we opened it up to all to join in and walk, run, or cycle.
"They didn’t have to do the whole thing, 100 metres, half a mile, one mile, two miles, or whatever each person could do."
“The challenge of running 100 miles in 24 hours was probably the toughest I’ve done to date,” Nadeem said.
“People might think it’s easier because I ran from London to Blackburn before, but this was harder.
"The lack of sleep, rest, and managing the mental and physical battles made it even more difficult.
"But with everyone’s prayers, support, and constant thoughts of the innocent Palestinians, I made it through.”
READ MORE: Runner completes 200 mile London to Blackburn run for Gaza aid
The Run for Gaza campaign, founded by Nadeem, raises funds to support those affected by the war in Palestine.
“There is no agenda or hatred towards any religion, sect, colour or country,” he said.
“My message is to spread peace, love, and harmony. We should learn to live respecting each other’s religion and beliefs without conflict.”
Looking ahead, Nadeem and his team plan to return to Palestine next summer to distribute funds directly through their newly formed M.L.A Foundation, named in memory of Muhammed Laith Adam.
"Through the foundation, we will honour and remember him and the thousands of innocent children, mothers, fathers, brothers, and sisters who have sadly departed this world.
"We will use the foundation as a platform to spread peace, bring us together, inspire, help, and support the next generation,” he said.
To donate, visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/runxgaza1.
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