Megan keeps on running through Barry

Tuesday, 9 December 2025 14:09

By Gareth Joy X @lookoutwales2

Pics: Ryan Redman / Charlie Boxall

A woman aiming to run 200 marathons in 200 days will reach Barry on Thursday.

Megan Boxall is in the middle of a seven-month challenge taking her around the coast of Britain to raise up to £50,000 for the Samaritans.

The financial journalist set off from Suffolk in October and hopes to complete her 5,240-mile journey next May.

Megan (33) says running has helped her give hope after struggling for years with her mental health and reaching out to the Samaritans.

According to the charity, someone in the UK dies from suicide every 90 minutes and volunteers pick up the phone to someone every 10 seconds.

"Their volunteers were there for me when the pain in my brain was so intense I couldn't pick myself up off the floor", she said. "I only wish I had picked up the phone to them sooner."

"I hope that by talking more about my experiences with Samaritans and raising money while I circle the country, I can help those who are struggling."

Megan began thinking about 'chasing the coastline' when she was just ten years old - following in the footsteps of her uncle, Tom Issacs, who completed a walk after he was diagnosed with Parkinson's at the age of 33.

So far, she's raised more than £14,000 and if she completes her 200-day challenge on time, she will break the record set by Lindsey 'Linzi' Bell, which stands at 298 days.

Having already covered over 900 miles - or 34 marathons - her run on Thursday will also take in Port Talbot and Swansea.

She's been joined for some of her miles by her faithful dog, Shadow, and is hoping to meet local businesses on her journey to help highlight the importance they play in the UK's economy.

To sponsor Megan's marathon challnge, visit her JustGiving page or her website.

Do you have a story to share? Email News@broradio.fm 

 

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