FRANCIS Benali's successful attempt to raise £1m for Cancer Research UK has been described by "phenomenal" by the charity.

Cancer Research has praised the decision to make the former Saints star an MBE following his fundraising mission, which ended in triumph earlier this year.

Francis, known as Franny, took part in a series of gruelling physical challenges over a five-year period.

As reported in the Daily Echo his name is among those that appear in the New Year's Honours List, which was published on Friday.

Cancer Research UK's chief executive, Michelle Mitchell, said: "We are delighted to hear that Francis Benali has been recognised with an MBE for his phenomenal fundraising efforts.

"The determination he showed in his quest to raise £1m while pushing his body and mind to the limit throughout three physical challenges was truly inspirational.

"The money raised will help Cancer Research UK fund vital research and improve outcomes for patients in the future."

Franny's fundraising campaign began in 2014 Benali’s Big Run, which took him to all 20 Premier League grounds in just three weeks.

After 21 days on the road, he sprinted into St Mary’s Stadium in Southampton at half-time on a match day and was given a standing ovation.

Next on the list was Benali’s Big Race, which involved revisiting all Premier League grounds as well as stopping off at all the Championship grounds. His trip to the 44 clubs involved cycling at least 70 miles a day for a fortnight.

Despite suffering several injuries he refused to give up and once again received a hero’s welcome.

In April the superfit 50-year-old completed his mission to raise £1m by taking part in seven Ironman events, which involved swimming, cycling and running a total of 140 miles each day.

The gruelling challenge was dubbed IronFran.

He was forced to temporarily withdraw from the event on medical grounds but went on to complete five triathlons in seven days after making a triumphant return.

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