A HIT-and-run crash survivor from Boscombe has run 800 miles as a “practice” for his latest charity challenge.

School caretaker Paul O’Boyle, 56, is set to tackle the South West Coast Path this weekend, setting off from Old Harry Rocks in Studland on Saturday, with an aim to reach Plymouth Barbican on August 4, running an average of 42 miles each day.

Paul made headline news last October after he ran 27 marathons in 26 straight days to raise money for Macmillan Caring Locally, the charity which funds the Macmillan Unit in Christchurch.

 

Paul's challenges are awe-inspiring"

 

Ahead of Saturday, Paul said: “I’ve certainly had some great practice runs in prep for my latest challenge including the 100k Jurassic Coast run and the Three Peaks challenge, which I completed within three weeks of each other.

“Since then, I’ve been running regular 30-50 mile routes to prepare myself.

“This has been pretty gruelling — especially in the last week or so as the weather has heated up. But I need to be prepared for all weathers and conditions.

He added: “To most people, the South West Coast Path is a leisurely way to see the coast. But for me it’s going to mean difficult terrain and a lot of miles to cover each day, so managing my rest, nutrition and hydration along the way is also going to be key.”

Father-of-one Paul took up running after surviving a horrific hit-and-run in July 2015, where he sustained fractures to his skull, ribs and collarbone after he was knocked off his bike on Wallisdown Road, Poole.

Neal Williams, trust secretary of Macmillan Caring Locally, said: “Paul’s challenges are awe inspiring. The fact that he has put in 800 miles just to practice for his latest challenge shows his incredible and unwavering commitment to the Mac Unit.

“Please show your admiration and sponsor Paul. Your support will carry him through this run and you will be helping us get another step closer to building a wonderful new hospice.”

Paul can be sponsored via: justgiving.com/campaign/Marathonmangoeswest