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A keen footballer swapped his soccer boots for trainers to complete a 5k run a day throughout November in aid of charity.

Dan from Emersons Green, Bristol, battled his way through driving rain and plunging temperatures to complete the challenge in aid of Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW). Dad of one Dan, who plays left back for Paulton Rovers, had only ever completed a 5k as part of his football training.

“I’m not a keen runner to be fair, but had to do them as part of football training, “said Dan.

Up until this challenge, I’d not done a 5k for around a year. I did a variety of different routes every day, but liked the ones that went down hills the best. It’s been pretty gruelling at times with the weather. The other day it was freezing so I really had to wrap up.

Dan’s daily runs – either before or after his work as a teacher at Chippenham Town Football Club – has seen him improve on his times. “When I first started it was taking me 30 minutes, but now I’m down to 22 which is great,” he said. Dan was inspired to raise money for CHSW after a friend’s nephew was supported by the charity.

They spoke so highly about the charity and the work it had done to support their nephew it inspired me to raise money as part of the challenge, said Dan.

Dan originally set himself a target of raising £750, but he has now smashed this and has already doubled it to more than £1,600.

“It has been hard work running 5k every day through November,” said Dan.

“And it’s something my football coach is keen for me to continue. I do want to keep it up but I won’t be doing one a day, every day. With Christmas coming up, I think I will enjoy just chilling out for a bit.”

CHSW Area Fundraiser for Bristol Amanda Leonard said: 

Dan has been a true inspiration and a great ambassador for the Children’s Hospice South West. Not only has he raised an incredible amount of sponsorship but he was also determined to do something that has brought him out of his comfort zone all while raising awareness of our work.

Dan has raised enough money that could fund a whole family stay at Charlton Farm over Christmas where families going through the most challenging times can make special memories together and be looked after in comfort. With a New Year round the corner many people start looking for new challenges and we’d urge them to get in touch about how they can support us.

Anyone who has been inspired by Dan's story and would like to support the Children’s Hospice South West and help local families should contact Amanda Leonard.

To make a donation in support of Dan’s efforts, visit his JustGiving page.