A FATHER completed an endurance challenge today in aid of West Coast Down’s Syndrome Support Group, a cause close to his heart.

Mark Finlay, 52 of Main Road, High Harrington, began his challenge on June 29, running 21km each day for 21 days, completing the final stretch this afternoon. 

He was originally planned to finish at a Haverigg camp site where the group is having its latest trip. However, due to a problem with his back earlier in the day, he powered through the last 21km closer to home.

The final hurdle added to the feeling of acomplishment for Mark: "This feels absolutely fantastic." He was feeling dejected at first but motivated himself for the final push: "I thought, 'I'm not going to be able to do this,' but getting it done, it's like finishing the London Marathon." 

It is a personal cause for Mr Finlay as his daughter Kate, 16, has Down’s syndrome and he and his wife Helen, 48, are active in the support group.

The number 21 is significant because people with Down’s syndrome have a third copy of chromosome 21. Events to raise awareness for the disability are often held on that day of the third month.

Mark has been keeping a hectic schedule, working full time at Sellafield in addition to the challenge.

Group chairman, Sharon Watson, said: “It’s going to help towards a trip in November. They get a little holiday once a year. We want to raise awareness in the local area and give them the same opportunities that everyone else has.”

He is looking to raise £200 for the organisation which supports people with Down’s syndrome as well as parents and carers in West Cumbria.

Sharon said: “He does a lot of fundraising for us and we appreciate everything that he does.
“The money that we raise for the kids goes towards taking them out on trips.”