RUNNERS from Inverclyde supported a marathon world record attempt through the streets of Greenock.

Ben Smith of Bristol was here as part of a nationwide bid to run 26.2 miles on 401 consecutive days around the UK.

He also aims to raise £250,000 for anti-bullying charities Stonewall and Kidscape.

Ben, 34, said the world record currently stands at 365 in a row, so he decided to go for 400 — and then add one on for a victory lap.

Greenock Glenpark Harriers helped him organise the Inverclyde leg — number 316 — and so far he has raised an incredible £115,000.

He started in Bristol last September, and is due to finish there in October, driving from place to place in a motorhome when he’s not running.

Speaking at the Cross of Lorraine on Lyle Hill, he said he was grateful for the support of the athletes joining him for his run to Largs and back.

Ben said: “I’ve had good and bad days.

“It’s the mental aspects that are a bit like a rollercoaster; some days you might feel worse than others.

“I’ve had a few injuries, from a fractured toe to issues with my back and I had to take some days off, but I’ve had physiotherapy and I’m back on the road, making up the distance and going really well.”

Ben gave up his job as a manager at a consumer goods company and sold his house and possessions to fund the project.

Explaining why he started the challenge, he said he had been bullied at boarding school, suffered depression at university and twice tried to take his own life. 

He said: “The turning point for me came when I was 31. I took charge of my life and finally came out as gay. It suddenly felt like my life made sense, which brought about feelings of inner peace and strength.

“I started running, and it gave me a sense of accomplishment.

“Having a close network of friends, family and sponsors has been integral to the success of the 401 challenge so far.”

To find out more about Ben’s challenge visit www.the401challenge.co.uk/