A WORDSLEY man who vowed to run 1,000 miles around the Dudley borough dressed as a superhero to raise money for NHS Charities has successfully completed his epic challenge.

Iain Gillett began the running feat on May 14 and four months later finished his 1000th mile at Dudley Kingswinford Rugby Club on September 13.

The challenge saw the 32-year-old run up to ten miles a day over 123 consecutive days at locations across the borough, all while wearing a superhero costume and cape, dubbed 'Captain NHS', to support staff in the fight against Covid-19.

He has so far raised just over £2,500 for NHS Charities which supports the wellbeing of staff around the country.

Iain said: "I am absolutely ecstatic to have finished, it's a massive relief it is done. When I put it all together I spent two hours each day running.

"It was about ten days into the challenge when I stopped and thought 'what have I done? I've taken on a big thing here'."

He was supported throughout the run by well wishers cheering him on the street, hooting their horns and sending in messages of encouragement on social media.

Iain has also said he has received messages from people who have been inspired to take up running or lead more active lives after following his challenge online.

Iain, who works on the public health team at Dudley Council, scheduled his runs during his lunch breaks and after work but admitted it became more of a mental challenge as he forced himself to run everyday.

He added: "It was more the mental side that was hard and forcing yourself out of the door everyday, but it's amazing what you can do when you put your mind to it.

"It's been a wonderful challenge."

Iain's Just Giving page is still open for donations, which can be made at: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/captainnhs1000