Telford runner halfway through 12-marathons-in-12-days challenge for charity has raised more than £2,300 so far

Whilst many Shropshire residents woke on Christmas morning to gather around the tree and open presents, Tim Stevens from Telford began his challenge of running 12 marathons in a row for charity. 

Today (December 30), Tim completed his sixth marathon in his quest to raise funds for the Severn Hospice.

Tim's grandmother was cared for by the hospice at its Apley site in Telford, and his grandad then volunteered there as a gardener for several years following her death as he was grateful for the care and support the family received.

So far, Tim has raised more than £2,300 for the hospice and is hoping to see the total continue to rise throughout this week.

The 36-year-old begins his marathons at St George's Cricket Club at around 8am each day before heading for Telford town centre and running along the Silkin Way and into Ironbridge. 

With less than six miles to go during his sixth marathon, Tim spoke to the Shropshire Star about how his challenge has gone so far, and revealed that it hasn't all been smooth sailing.

"I made a schoolboy error on Boxing Day and didn't cut my toenails back far enough," said Tim. "My big toe was banging the front of my shoe, so on the second and third day my toe was starting to bruise and that made it a bit more difficult.

"You go through peaks and troughs, one day might feel better than the next.

"I am a little bit stiff in the morning, but I am alright when I get going. It's not as bad as I thought it would be though, but it goes through stages.

"When you stop, and in some afternoons, I can't walk very well, but once I have had a warm bath it is a bit better."

The keen runner has been joined by family and friends on some of his marathons - some running, and some on pushbikes. 

And he is inviting residents to join him during his final runs on both days this weekend - anticipating a start at 8am at St George's Cricket Club and to run six-mile loops so anyone can join in. 

Tim added: "I am overwhelmed with the support I have had so far. 

"Some people know me and what I am capable of but even when you are capable of something it can still go wrong. The main objective is to raise as much as I can. 

"I am turning 37 soon, and at least I can still do this type of thing. There will come a time when I can't, and I am just trying to do what I can whilst I can, and if it makes a difference in a positive way then that is great.

"Obviously I want to raise as much money as charity, but if I can bring positivity too then I am happy, just try and raise as much as possible and inspire people to get out."

You can donate to Tim's JustGiving page here.