Together, we can make a difference. Miles4Meals aims are simple - to raise awareness of food poverty and do all possible to end those living in food crisis in our country.

I became an ambassador for this incredible charity in January 2021, inspired by John and his drive to challenge himself. The desire to seek challenge and self improve is something so important to our vision for education at Sticklepath Community Primary Academy. It is something we ask children to do day in, day out at our school. 

I questioned whether I pushed myself personally in the same way that I expect from the children at Sticklepath. The answer was no. I then thought about the thing I find most difficult, running! 

John has taught me that all of my reasons why I couldn’t do long distance running were just excuses. Yes, I may have incredibly bowed legs that a chicken would be embarrassed of!  Yes, I may look like I’ve ridden to school on a horse and yes, my body shape has been described as a ‘toffee apple on a stick!’

However, these are things that make running harder for me but by no means impossible. This is the same message I am giving daily as a teacher. Embrace the struggle, for that is where the best learning lies. You may find some things more difficult than others. It doesn’t mean you can’t do it but just that you may have to work harder.

And also, if John can go from 29 stone and one of the UK’s strongest men, to running 48 marathons in 48 days, in 48 counties, then it’s a pretty poor effort if I can’t do 100 laps of the school track and run one of those marathons with him.

I’m really looking forward to the children running with me throughout the 100 lap challenge day and pushing themselves beyond their usual daily 10 minute runs. Together we are aiming to run the same miles as John but as a collective effort to equal his 48 marathons, 1257 miles, 6200 school laps. This is a huge challenge for the children  and myself. 

Also, on Saturday 7th August, John and I will be running the Devon marathon leg on the tarka trail between Torrington-Barnstaple and back to Bideford to finish in Victoria park. It will be John’s 34th marathon in 34 days! It would be lovely to see you along the route to cheer us on or feed us jelly babies! 

Please sponsor what you can and get behind this fantastic charity and John’s incredible 48/48/48 challenge. 

Many thanks,

Matt Pennington