'I've run a marathon every day this year'

A man has described running a marathon every day this year as the most meaningful thing he has ever done.

James Cooper, from East Grinstead in West Sussex, began running 26 miles (42 km) a day at the start of 2024 to raise money for the mental health charity Samaritans.

"I have enjoyed... the purpose this challenge has provided me with," he told the BBC. "It is an incredible feeling."

The 37-year-old has raised just over £58,000 of a £703,000 target - a pound for every life lost to suicide around the world each year, as recorded by the World Health Organization.

James said the feat was physically and mentally difficult, though he felt "pretty fit and healthy".

"It is just the daily grind of knowing I can't miss a day, [otherwise] the whole challenge is over," he said, adding that he has to "forget his feelings and emotions".

"It is not always easy, but it shows the power of discipline when you're working towards a cause close to your heart."

James said distance running helped him cope with his own mental health issues, including a period of depression in 2014 and 2015.

He added that he wanted to support Samaritans as friends and relatives had taken their own lives.

The personal trainer said the challenge, which he will finish in the New Year, has helped him become a better person.

"It is an incredible way to grow as a human being. It helps cultivate resilience, mental fortitude, mental strength, courage, and discipline."

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