A KEEN runner has completed an epic challenge to run from Bournemouth to Glasgow in 21 days.

David Smith arrived at George Square in Glasgow after running more than 600 miles.

The 50-year-old's mammoth journey saw him run an average of 28 miles every day, more than a marathon – all in aid of children’s charities Forest Holme Hospice in Poole and Children’s Hospice Association Scotland (CHAS).

Recently of Westbourne, he has since moved back to Scotland to be closer to his family.

The challenge began with David descending the zip wire at the end of Bournemouth Pier and proceed to head across the country on an unplanned route and without any accommodation booked for the days ahead.

But adventurous David said it was the spontaneity of the route that made the challenge so enjoyable.

“It was an amazing experience, the best thing I’ve ever done. I’m a beach runner so getting off the sand on the first day was good and I cruised it to Salisbury. I crossed the border into Scotland on the same day the London Marathon finished and completed my first country.

“Then, crossing the Forth Bridge was a monumental moment.

“I never had a set route as it was much more fun plotting it on the day. My biggest stretch was on day 15 when I did 38 miles."

Commenting on the most difficult aspects of his challenge, he said: “Yorkshire was massive. I thought I’d be there for days, although it was a beautiful place to be baffled in. After that, I stuck to the roads so I could get the job done.”

At one stage of his journey, about 20 miles before he reached Darlington in the North East of England, David’s running shoes fell apart. He managed to replace them, but not before causing himself injury.

“My legs were battered after my body took all that impact from my broken trainers. I had some acupuncture in Newcastle and, after that, I was good to go again – it was amazing.”

David said the highlight of his challenge was when he “bumped into” a fellow fundraising dynamo – Speedo Mick, aka Mick Cullen, in Staffordshire. The Everton fan walked from London to Bournemouth sporting his swimming trunks for the FA Cup game between the Cherries and Everton in February.

This time, he was on a 10-day walk from Liverpool to Wembley for the semi-final.

David said: “It was quite hysterical and so unexpected to meet him.”

Following his marathon effort, he has raised nearly £3,500 for the two charities.