Local marathon-man hero completes 24hour run for Japan

Neil O'Maonaigh-Lennon, 30, from Rowlands Avenue , set off on his fundraising challenge at noon on Saturday. Running 1.1 kilometer laps around Centenary Park , he clocked up over 50 miles as he through the night, stopping only for water.

The super-fit runner, who previously ran 105 marathons in 105 days for Cancer Research UK , raised over £1,000 in aid of the British Red Cross Japan Tsunami Appeal.

After crossing the finishing line, Neil said: "I was in a bit of a dip at 4am this morning, it was pitch black and the temperature had dropped quite a bit. But then the sun came up and I had my Mum and a few friends come and run a few laps with me which was a huge support. 

"I ran more than my target of two marathons in the 24 hours, but more importantly we've raised £1,019 so far for the British Red Cross Japan Tsunami Appeal, so it has all been worth it!

"Thank you so much to everyone who donated."

The Mayor of Harrow, Cllr Asad Omar, who cheered on Neil in his final laps said: "It makes me so proud to be Mayor of this borough when I see that we have residents such as Neil who feel compelled to stand up and do something for those people affected by natural disaster. 

"In my time as Mayor, we have seen catastrophes in Pakistan, Australia, New Zealand and more recently Japan, and the response of the Harrow community in doing what they can to help those affected has been overwhelming. 

"I wanted to personally come and congratulate Neil on his fantastic achievement and to thank him for taking it upon himself to raise so much money for a very worthy cause."

Asked if he would be enjoying a celebratory drink on the sunny Sunday afternoon, Neil added: "No chance! I'm going straight to bed!"

You can still sponsor Neil at www.justgiving.com/neils24hourrun