A FATHER-OF-TWO took on a 150-mile run raise vital funds for an eye research charity.

Craig Heron attempted to run from Birmingham to London while carrying a 13kg backpack containing all his supplies.

The challenge, his own version of the Grand Union Canal Run, was in aid of Fight for Sight and the Alzheimer's Society.

Mr Heron's 14-year-old daughter, Elise, was diagnosed with eye disease Stargardt’s, which affects part of the retina.

The condition also affects Mr Heron’s father, and he was determined to support Fight for Sight.

After completing three marathons back-to-back, an agonising knee injury forced him to pull out of the challenge.

Mr Heron, from Billericay, said: “It was an incredible challenge and it pushed my boundaries to the absolute limit. I was gutted not to have been able to cross the finish line, but I’m still proud of running 75 miles. I’m determined to complete the challenge and I’ve already pledged to signup to the official race next year.

“Thank you to everyone who has supported me throughout the challenge and please dig deep and donate to these two amazing charities.”

His epic journey began at 3am on Sunday, May 17, and Mr Heron aimed to run non-stop until he crossed the finish line.

He completed the first 23 miles in just under five hours, and continued to run from dawn to dusk through Coventry, Solihull, Warwick, Royal Leamington Spa, Wolverhampton and Milton Keynes.

Catherine Woodhead, director of fundraising at Fight for Sight said: “We are extremely proud of Craig for going the extra mile to support us. It was such an ambitious challenge and to run 75 miles is an amazing achievement – well done! The money raised will support research into Stargardt’s to help create a future for Elise and others like her.”

Jeremy Hughes, chief executive at Alzheimer’s Society, said: “We are delighted that Craig has given so much time to support Alzheimer’s Society.

“There are 850,000 people livingwith dementia in the UK and this number is set to rise. We rely on the generosity of individuals like him to help us continue our vital work.

“Thank you Craig for helping Alzheimer’s Society to continue leading the fight against dementia.”