A FITNESS fanatic has crossed the finish line after completing a gruelling 1,000km challenge in aid of a hospice.

Al Pepper, from Blackburn, set himself a target to cover the distance in organised events over land and sea in just 12 months.

And now, after taking part in the Parbold hill race, the same event he did to start the challenge last year, he has completed his charity mission.

The 44-year-old has taken part in 30 events, including 27 running races, a 12-hour off-road motorcycle endurance race, the coast to coast Whitehaven to Tynemouth cycle ride and the Blackpool to Manchester bike ride.

He said: “This has been a fantastic experience.

“Not only have I taken part in many different events, I have met some wonderful people along the way.

“I think the toughest challenge and the highlight of my journey was the High Peak 40 — a 40-mile fell run in the Peak District.”

Mr Pepper, whose wife, Liz, is the deputy mayoress of Bury, has raised more than £500 for the town’s hospice.

He is making a final rallying call for people to get behind his campaign and help boost his fundraising efforts.

Mr Pepper said: “I’d like to thank everyone who has sponsored me so far, because Bury Hospice is such a worthwhile cause.

“If people still want to sponsor me now that I have completed the challenge, then their support would be very welcome.”

Despite reaching his target, Mr Pepper will not be putting his feet up.

Instead, he is now setting his sights on the Marathon Des Sables, a six-day 243km race across the Sahara.

Claire Warner, the hospice’s director of fundraising, said: “We can’t thank Al enough for completing this challenge for Bury Hospice.

"Hopefully, he’ll keep on running to raise money for good causes.”

To make a donation, visit justgiving.com/challenge1000

Al's shoes were made for running

  • Al Pepper has taken part in 30 events to raise cash for Bury Hospice
  • He has run 27 races, competed in 12-hour motorcyle endurance races, cycled 140 miles coast to coat from Whitehaven to Tynemouth and rode in the Manchester to Blackpool bike ride
  • While he has covered 1,000 kilometres he has used 152,178 calorie
  • His training regime has seen him complete an extra 1,277 kilometres