A man who just weeks ago described himself as a ‘couch potato’ has completed one of the toughest challenges known to man – an ultra marathon.

Mark Grundill from Guilden Morden ran the exhausting distance of 69 miles from Carlisle to Newcastle to raise money for Cancer Research UK.

He ran the course in an impressive time of 18hrs 11mins, and in the process raised more than £500 for charity, well above his initial target.

The 48-year-old said: “It was hard work and I would like to say a big thank you to the Royston Crow and your readers for all your support on behalf of myself and Cancer Research UK.

“It was so hard, I have never seen so many hills in my life. I have blisters on top of blisters.

“But wow, it was a great feeling to finish.

“It is something I will never forget.”

During the run, Mark took in some of the impressive sites of Hadrian’s Wall, Carlisle Castle and Newcastle’s Quayside at the Rat Race: The Wall event.

To donate via Mark’s fundraising page, visit www.justgiving.com/Mark-Grundill2014.