Redditch runner calls on community support as he takes on 60km challenge for seriously ill children

FRIENDS families and fellow runners are being invited to take part in a community run at Arrow Valley Country Park this Sunday as 21‑year‑old local fundraiser Samuel Attwell prepares for an extraordinary challenge rarely attempted at his age.

Samuel will tackle his longest training run to date, an incredible 60 kilometres – 37 miles – in a single day, as part of his preparation for running from Malin Head to Mizen Head to raise £50,000 for children’s charity Molly Ollys.

The 60km run will be completed as multiple laps of Arrow Valley Country Park, meaning local runners can join Samuel for as little or as much as they like, from one relaxed lap to a longer training session, or simply to show support and encouragement along the route.

“You don’t have to run 60 kilometres,” said Samuel. “Even joining me for one lap turns an everyday run into something that could help a seriously ill child.”

Samuel is preparing to run almost 350 miles, covering the equivalent of an ultramarathon every single day for ten consecutive days. With just weeks to go, training has entered its most demanding phase.

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The Arrow Valley run has been designed to replicate the physical and mental strain he will face on the Irish route, testing endurance, pacing, recovery and resilience.

“Training is going well, but there’s no sugar‑coating it, it’s brutal,” he said. “At times it pushes you right to your limits. But every tough session reminds me why I’m doing this and why every single step matters.”

Samuel has already raised over £15,000, giving his campaign a strong head start towards his £50,000 target.

If successful, the funds raised could help deliver up to 100 wishes for seriously ill children, bringing comfort, joy and precious moments of hope to families facing the toughest of circumstances.

Samuel is running as an ambassador for Molly Ollys, a UK‑based children’s charity supporting children with life‑threatening and life‑limiting illnesses through wishes, therapeutic toys, books and emotional support.

The charity also supports children in Ireland on a not‑for‑profit basis, including the supply of Olly The Brave books to Crumlin Children’s Hospital in Dublin and the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children.

Sam added: “It would be great to see people from the local community drop in, say hello or even join me for a lap or two.

“This will be the longest distance I’ve ever attempted, so having others alongside me would mean a lot – thank you in advance for the support.”

Samuel’s Ireland challenge begins on May 18 and he is aiming to reach Mizen Head by May 27.

Visit www.justgiving.com/page/samrunsireland to donate.