A VALE man has raised more than £1000 for Alzheimer’s Society after completing a mammoth marathon challenge across Wales in memory of his grandmother.

Dan Brown pushed all physical limits in an adventure which involved him running and kayaking the length of the country, to help raise vital funds and awareness in a tribute to his grandmother Vallia Cole.

Mr Brown, 35, of Rhoose, began his challenge on Tuesday, July 12 when he set off from the most northerly point in North Wales, Ynys Badrig, travelling to the most southerly point on land, his home town Rhoose.

He arrived on Friday, August 12, but the next day kayaked out to the island of Flat Holm, which is the most southerly point in Wales overall.

Family and friends gathered to celebrate and show their support for their very own hero.

Mr Brown said: “My average involved running twenty miles, with my longest day being 35 miles which is well over a marathon. Some of the tougher days involved taking on Wales’ three biggest mountains Snowdon, Cadair Idris, and Pen y Fan as well as several other hills and mountains.

“I decided to run from north to south through Wales for Alzheimer's Society because the challenge I face is small compared to dementia. The charity leads the fight against dementia, and is close to my heart after seeing the affect dementia had on my grandmother. Any money raised will help support people living with the condition.”

Community fundraiser for Alzheimer’s Society, Cheryl George said: “There are currently 45,000 people living with dementia here in Wales which is why we are so grateful of the support of our fantastic fundraisers like Dan. I have been totally inspired reading about Dan’s adventures and seeing his pictures on social media along the way. I know his family are immensely proud of his achievement in memory of his grandmother and the funds he’s raised for Alzheimer’s Society.”

To set yourself a challenge or discover how to get involved, call Alzheimer’s Society on 02920 475573 or cheryl.george@alzheimers.org.uk