Congratulations to Alan Jervis, head of education for Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, who completed his Around Cornwall Challenge for charity on Saturday.

Alan set off on his challenge from Porthtowan on Saturday, May 18, and covered 26 miles (40km) every day on the South West Coast Path, both running and walking. By the time he crossed the finish line, he had travelled over 340 miles and climbed a total of around 18,000m in two weeks.

There were emotional scenes as Alan arrived back in Porthtowan, where he was greeted by family and friends, and a spirited rendition of Trelawny by Truro Male Choir. “To have everyone here really does mean a lot,” he said.

“There were times, especially in the first week, when I thought I was not going to finish. Each day was really tough, so it is a really big relief to get it done.”

Having taken part in many marathons in the past, Alan was forced to take a break from running due to due to the heart condition of atrial fibrillation. However, following treatment in 2020, he donned the running shoes once again.

“I thought it was about time I did something for charity,” he said. “The atrial fibrillation impacted on my running for about 10 years and will return at some point, so I wanted to do this while I’m still fit and healthy.”

Alan aimed to be self-sufficient along the way, carrying all his belongings in a bivvy bag weighing around 13kg. He camped out most evenings, staying with friends on the odd occasion.

Three local charities will benefit from Alan’s travails: Penhaligon’s Friends, supporting bereaved children and their families; mental health and wellbeing charity Cornwall Mind; and Touch Eldoret, a Christian charity based in Truro which supports health and employment projects in a small Kenyan village. It currently helps to send several children to school who would not otherwise receive any education.

Having set a fundraising target of £1,000 target, Alan has tripled it with over £3,000 in the pot, thanks to over 150 generous donors.

“I really appreciate every donation that comes in. When I was feeling really low and tired, seeing the donations coming in kept me going.

“The page is still open for another couple of months, and every donation, regardless of how small, has a massive impact on what these small charities can provide.”

Once home, Alan’s thoughts turned to home comforts. “I think I’ve got a steak dinner with some red wine – and I will just relax a little!”

To make a donation to Alan’s three chosen charities, visit www.givewheel.com and search for Alan’s Around Cornwall Challenge.