A FITNESS fanatic has crossed the finish line after completing a gruelling 1,000km challenge in aid of Bury Hospice.

Al Pepper set himself a target to cover the distance in organised events over land and sea in just 12 months.

And now, after taking part in the Parbold hill race — the same event he did to start the challenge last year — he has completed his charity mission. The 44-year-old has taken part in 30 events, including 27 running races, a 12-hour off-road motorcycle endurance race, the coast to coast Whitehaven to Tynemouth cycle ride and the Blackpool to Manchester bike ride.

He said: “This has been a fantastic experience.

“Not only have I taken part in many different events, I have met some wonderful people along the way.

“I think the toughest challenge and the highlight of my journey was the High Peak 40 — a 40-mile fell run in the Peak District.”

Mr Pepper, whose wife, Liz, is the deputy mayoress of Bury, has raised more than £500 for the hospice.

He is making a final rallying call for people to get behind his campaign and help boost his fundraising efforts.

Mr Pepper, who lives in Blackburn, said: “I’d like to thank everyone who has sponsored me so far, because Bury Hospice is such a worthwhile cause. If people still want to sponsor me now that I have completed the challenge, then their support would be very welcome.”

Despite reaching his target, Mr Pepper will not be putting his feet up. Instead, he is setting his sights on the Marathon Des Sables, a six-day 243km race across the Sahara.

Claire Warner, the hospice’s director of fundraising, said: “We can’t thank Al enough for completing this challenge for Bury Hospice. Hopefully, he’ll keep on running to raise money for good causes.” To make a donation, visit justgiving.com/challenge1000 Alternatively, send a donation to Challenge 1,000, c/o Bury Hospice Fundraising, 89 The Rock, Bury, BL9 0NB.