Alan’s record-breaking lap of Wales!

A former drug addict and alcoholic who turned to running to help him transform his life is homing in on a unique record for completing a lap of Wales that takes in more than 1,000 miles.

Alan Bateson is a 44-year-old hairdresser who runs for up to 15 hours a week training as an ultrarunner, and is known to MyWelshpool readers with us covering some of his incredible efforts in the past.

But his latest jaunt started on June 26 from Chester, running the entire Wales Coastal Path of nearly 900 miles, and if that’s not enough, he is now on the Chepstow to Prestatyn Offa's Dyke Path, a further 177 miles, to complete the incredible loop.

The record stands at just under 26 days, but if all goes to plan and he finishes tomorrow, Alan will complete it in an remarkable 22 days. This is an average of over 48 miles a day, with over 4,500ft of elevation daily. A huge undertaking.

He is also raising money for two charities very close to his heart, so keep an eye out for him passing through the area today as he reaches Montgomeryshire on his route north. Over £5,000 has been raised so far, with the amount rising.

“I am doing this to raise money and awareness for two charities that mean a lot to me personally,” said Alan, who is from Bishop’s Castle but is well-known in the Welshpool area.

“The Children’s Society, who provide support and help to those that need it, all over the UK, be it abused, exploited or neglected children. Closer to home, Axis Counselling, who work with people who have suffered sexual abuse. 

“I was sexually abused myself and it has had a major impact on my life, contributing to my issues with drug and alcohol addiction, a low sense of self-worth and fragile self-esteem.

“From experience I can assure you that being able to talk to someone and process the shame, guilt, disgust and all of the other horrid feelings that survivors of abuse are left with, makes a huge difference, helping us move on and find peace.”

Alan has been posting regularly online during his adventure, and prior to reaching the end of the Coastal Path last Saturday, he said: “Thanks for all the love, support and donations.”

You can track Alan’s incredible run live through this link.

Alan’s Just Giving page is here.

Or you can follow Alan on his Facebook group here.