A MAN has run almost almost 500 miles by completing a marathon a month for the past 15 months to raise money for charity.

Alex Rickman, aged 39, has completed 15 marathons and the Isle of Wight Ultra Challenge since April 2020.

He has raised over £4,200 for the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, who named him volunteer of the year last year.

The Lindfield man is an experienced runner and has run 11 ultra marathons in total, he said: "This has been the hardest challenge I've undertaken due to the ongoing commitment over a long period of time.

"Running a marathon every month gave me the chance to explore new places in my local area. I was born and raised in the Weald, Sussex, and have always been active outdoors. I've discovered new pathways, hidden gorges, stunning woodlands, it's been a great adventure."

The Argus: Man has run nearly 500 miles, finishing 15 marathons and an Ultra Challenge for charity

The Trust offers sailing and outdoor activities to young people who have been diagnosed with cancer to improve their mental wellbeing and sense of purpose.

Alex has been a keen sailor since he was 16 and volunteered for the trust for four years after his friend's daughter, who sailed with the charity after cancer treatment, encouraged him to use his sailing skills and experience with young people to volunteer.

"The Isle of Wight Ultra was the most magical run due to the connection with the Trust. Their southern base is in Cowes and running around the island and along coastline I've sailed along on trips was really special.

"After 18 months of no trips, it was wonderful to see Trust staff out on the route supporting me too," he said.

He himself had treatment for testicular cancer in 2012-13 and had initially set a fundraising target of £550 to take one young person on a four-day sailing trip.

That target was quickly surpassed and he is now looking forward to returning to support young people on three sailing and outdoor activity weeks this summer.

The Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust is a national charity that inspires young people aged eight to 24 to believe in a brighter future living through and beyond cancer.