At 7am on a white frosty morning, we set off from Beacon Batch, the highest point on the Mendip Hills, in an attempt to complete the 117 mile circuit of the Mendip Ring. This has never been completed in a single, non stop run before.

For myself, this was going to be extra special as it would be my last ultra distance run, since having a double hip replacement three years ago, whilst also supporting such a special event.

I managed to complete fifty-one miles of the curcuit before joining my wife Jo, who also provided support by crewing the entire event.

It was very emotional to see so many support runners who came to join us at all hours throughout the day and night from the local running community, many exceeding their own personal goals.

On Saturday evening, as darkness fell, two runners , Ian Rodd and Steven Probert, became the first to complete the loop with an amazing 123.43 miles with 10,892 ft of elevation in a fantastic 38 hours and 5 minutes. It made me very proud and honoured to be part of this epic adventure, Thank you to all involved.

Runners came from all different running groups to support the team, day and night.
(Joanne Donoghue)

John Reynolds