A YOUNG man from Mauchline has committed to running 100 miles in February in aid of Release Ayrshire – an online platform set up to provide confidential support and advice to men who are in crisis or simply need to talk.

Declan Chalmers, 22, has taken on the fitness challenge to raise money for the mental health platform in the understanding that renewed lockdown restrictions may be taking its toll on people in the local community and surrounding areas.

The PT says the prospect of running nearly the equivalent of Glasgow to Edinburgh and back in 28 days is more of an inspiring one than a “daunting” one, and is heartened at already having surpassed his initial target of £250 in just over two weeks of fundraising.

Declan said: “I see myself as a helpful and approachable person so I took this as an opportunity to give back to others who may need the help and support during the situation we find ourselves in.

“It allows people to see that the likes of myself are thinking of others.

“As Release Ayrshire are a local charity, I felt it was only right to give something back to them as a thank you for all the work they do in regards of mental health in the local communities.

“Coming from a fitness background as a PT, I fairly enjoy running but wanted to improve so it was an easy decision to do what I’m doing. I feel it’s more of a motivated challenge rather than a daunting one and having already surpassed the target this early in the challenge is unbelievable.

“The support from family and friends has been great, as is knowing it’s all going to benefit so many people.”

Last week, the charity proudly unveiled their new sponsorship T-shirts to mark the beginning of Declan’s 100-mile lockdown challenge, which was received with high praise from his supporters.

Robbie Muir, Founder of Release, said: “We would like to thank Declan on his fundraising efforts. Not only will his donation help our service and the users but the awareness that is created for our service is invaluable.

“The more people that know about the service, the better, and through fundraising events like this, it is greatly increased.”

If you would like to donate, click here

For more information, visit Release Ayrshire on Facebook

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