A FLINTSHIRE dad has run more than 800 miles in order to fund a party for NHS workers.

Paul Geddes, of Penymynydd, began the gruelling challenge on April 6.

The 52-year-old set himself the target of running 840 miles (the equivalent of 32 marathons) by completing a circular route of at least 8.4 miles every day.

He also carried an extra 25kg on each run.

Mr Geddes, who was in the Army for 25 years and worked as a bodyguard in Iraq for five years, completed the challenge on Saturday and was joined by about 20 supporters who ran with him for the final leg.

He said: "I finished at the Millstone in Penyffordd and I got quite emotional in that last 200 metres because there were people clapping at the end - it was overwhelming.

"The support I have had has been unbelievable. I have had £11,840 donated to my fundraising page and I've got another £1,200 coming in from a friend who grew a beard.

"I set myself the target of £15,000, so I am hoping that by the time the event comes around I'll have reached the target - please keep donating if you can."

Mr Geddes, who owns GHQ Barber Shop in Hoole, described how the challenge had taken its toll on him, including a "popped ankle" and various other injuries including his back, knee, thigh and hip.

"It seems now I have stopped all of the little injuries are raising their head," he said. "I've lost 13kg in weight too."

Mr Geddes said the NHS party will be taking place at Opera Grill in Chester at a date to be confirmed, once social distancing are stepped down enough to allow it.

For more information, visit @RunGeddesRun on Facebook and to donate, visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/run-geddes-run