Green Watch’s Tom Sharp, from Avon Fire and Rescue Service, will be taking on the Dragon Coastal 100-mile ultramarathon on July 20-21.

Raising all important funds for the Samaritans, Tom will set off from Rhossili Bay, aiming to run 100-miles to reach Cardiff Bay in under 36 hours.

He has chosen to take part in the race after the Samaritans supported him through a difficult time, but also in memory of his best friend Steven, who sadly took his own life many years ago. 

Tom said: “Samaritans helped me through a mental health crisis during Christmas 2021 and I honestly don't know what I would have done without them. They are always there, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, but they need our support to keep running. When I took part in the Mental Health First Aid course earlier this year, I found out that Samaritans have had their funding cut for the first time in 10 years, so this is another important reason to help this essential charity.

“I was originally planning to take part in this challenge with my best friend Ed, we both have ADHD and have suffered with anxiety and depression throughout our lives and use running as a safe space to talk. However, Ed recently picked up an injury so he will not be joining me on this epic journey, which is going to involve running through the night and into the next day with no sleep.”

Samaritans provide free crisis support and mental health services, 24 hours a day for anyone who’s struggling to cope or who needs someone to listen without judgement or pressure. Just £5 is enough to fund one of these calls, a call that potentially save a life.

If you’d like to support Tom and Ed, or make a donation, you can do so here.