A DAD who embarked on a challenge to run 31 marathons for 31 days before work has raised more than £4,000 for charity.

Gareth Hughes, who works in Newport as director of estates and facilities at Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, covered a whopping 810 miles after setting himself the challenge of running 31 marathons in 31 days.

The father-of-two decided to take up the challenge to raise money for three charities - the Sparkle Appeal, the Nevill Hall Children’s Centre Trust and Cheshire Autism Practical Support.

The 47-year-old, who is from Cheshire but is based in Newport four days a week for work, has two sons who are on the autistic spectrum so said he wanted to raise money for charities that support children.

He said: “It was definitely worth it. We raised more than £4,000 with gift aid and that will be split between the three charities.

“It was a very difficult challenge but at the same time it was a lot of fun.

“I never realised how hard it would be to fit everything in before work - to be in work for 8am you would have to be in an ice bath at 7.30am.

“I would go to bed at 8pm and get up at 1.30am.

“I was averaging five hours of sleep a night which took its toll.”

Mr Hughes ran on his own every day and said that it took a lot of determination for him to keep his focus.

He said: “I was running unsupported so that made it more challenging. It was worth it though.”

The last day of Mr Hughes’ 31 day marathon took place on Saturday, October 28 where he finished his challenge at the Snowdonia marathon.

He also said his oldest son James, 10, ran with him for the last mile to support him on his final event.

“It was great to have that support,” he said.

“Work has been fantastic with their support - and the money we have raised is the icing on the cake.

“It makes a big difference for the kids. It will help the charities make a kid’s life more fun and interesting.”