Andy Coleman is running 5k a day for every donation made to Ukrainian fundraiser

Andy Coleman, from Armathwaite, has so far raised over £1,000 of his initial £500 target, banking up 250 kilometres in the process. 

The runner said he is 'really pleased' at how the fundraiser has gone so far as he marks day 51 (April, 26) . 

"I was listening to LBC Radio on March 7 and I remember the presenter saying so what are you doing to help Ukraine, so I just thought, you're right, I'll do something. 

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"The challenge is finding the time, I'm working 10 hour days and got university assignments due, so it's been difficult and sore on the legs," he said. 

Fundraising is no new feat for Andy, as he raised funds in a similar manner by raising money for the Movember charity by running every day throughout November. 

Andy marked day 51 with a rest day which he was glad of as a friend, Dave Wardrop, filled in his shoes for the day as a result of Andy completing 50 runs. 

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"My legs are glad of the rest today, it's been tough, days four to ten were particularly challenging because your not used to it but some days are totally fine, it really does comes in waves. 

"I'm up to 53 donations so here we go again tomorrow. I'll keep going until the donations stop," he said.

The money raised will go to support the shelter that the Penrith teacher, Andy Joseph, has set up in Lviv. 

Andy Joseph fled to Lviv from Kyiv after war broke out but is now operating his rented flat as a sheltered support for Ukrainian refugees fleeing other parts of the country. 

£500 will go from Andy's own pocket immediately to help those suffering through the crisis whilst the donations are still coming in. 

To donate to Andy's Ukrainian fundraiser, click here

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