Rochdale "hero" completes gruelling 232-mile ultra-marathon across Scotland for Jolly Josh

A brave Rochdale resident has conquered the gruelling 2024 Race Across Scotland, a 220-mile coast-to-coast ultra-marathon, to raise funds for local charity Jolly Josh.

Finn Newall, who undertook the incredible challenge, pushed through the Scottish landscape for 72 hours and 19 minutes, covering 232 miles in total with checkpoints.

His journey saw him burning nearly 29,000 calories, taking over 443,000 steps, and surviving on just 4.5 hours of sleep.

At the time of writing Finn had raised nearly £4,000 for Jolly Josh.

Liz, a representative from Jolly Josh, expressed her admiration for Finn’s extraordinary achievement, saying, "We were overwhelmed before the race when Finn approached us to tell us of his unbelievable challenge."

Throughout the event, Liz and the Jolly Josh team followed Finn’s progress via a live tracking system, marvelling at the physical and mental endurance required. "We sent him personalised videos from our families to share our support along his journey," she added, proudly dubbing him their "Jolly Josh superhero."

Jolly Josh provides essential support to families with children who have complex medical needs, offering services such as hydrotherapy and youth group sessions at their fully adapted centre on Queensway in Rochdale.

Since its opening in April 2022, the centre has become a lifeline for local families, offering a safe and inclusive environment where children and their carers can connect and support one another.

The funds raised by Finn’s heroic effort will play a crucial role in sustaining the services Jolly Josh provides, which are offered free of charge to families in need. The charity relies on fundraising efforts like Finn’s to continue its vital work in the community.

As Finn now takes time to rest, recover, and reflect on his achievement, the impact of his journey is already resonating throughout Rochdale.

His dedication to training and preparation for the race, which included several ultra-endurance events, has not only raised much-needed funds but also shone a light on the challenges faced by families caring for children with complex needs.

Donations to support Finn’s fundraising efforts for Jolly Josh can be made through his JustGiving page, where all contributions are greatly appreciated.

For more information about Jolly Josh and the services they offer, visit their website or contact their Rochdale centre directly.

Visit the JustGiving page here.