82-Year-Old Vegan To Run 100km In His Garden To Raise Funds To Save Animals

Paul Youd, an 82-year-old vegan pensioner from Taunton, is going to run 100km in a bid to raise money for animals.

Paul is planning to run 10km a day between June 21-31 to raise money for Dean Farm Trust, an animal sanctuary in Chepstow. He will be running around a small track marked out in his garden.

In a statement sent to Vegan Food & Living, Paul said: "I wanted to challenge myself and do something to help the rescued animals at Dean Farm Trust.

"They do such amazing work to rescue animals in need and they are really struggling at the moment, with many of their funding sources affected by the Coronavirus. Running was something I could learn from the safety of my home."

He added: "Since I began running, just eight weeks ago, I've had no aches and pains - apart from a bit of stiffness if I sit too long. Whenever I've completed a run, I've always felt there was more in the tank - I'm pretty confident I can meet this challenge!"

Commenting on Paul's challenge, Dean Farm Trust founder, Mary Frankland, said: "Running a 10km is no mean feat, but to run a 10km ten times in ten days is incredible – at any age!

"Paul has been a wonderful supporter of our sanctuary and we can't wait to follow along with his run. We are so grateful to Paul for fundraising for us, especially during these difficult times."