A RAF engineer ran from Lincoln to Winsford capping off a gargantuan effort to clock a 1000 miles within the year for charity.

Ricky Houston, 32, has been running all year for St Luke's Hospice in memory of his auntie, Karen, who lost her fight against cancer in 2008.

As well as running almost every day since January, Ricky has completed several marathons including the Chester Marathon last month.

Ricky decided to run the equivalent of four marathons in four days after hitting his target ahead of schedule, travelling from Lincoln to St Luke’s in Winsford, racking up a total of 1,202 miles.

“I feel like I could go again to be honest,” he said. “I thought about going out for a run this morning, but then my wife put on some bacon, and I decided against it.”

It’s taken a spectacular effort to complete the challenge, and Ricky admits his friends and family told him he had ‘no chance’ when he first revealed plans, and even had doubts himself.

“This is something I never thought I’d be doing,” he said. “When I was in school I was the one who would be off sick when we had to do cross country.”

On the final push of his marathon effort, Ricky set off with his brother Andrew Houston to the chimes of Lincoln cathedral, finishing in Bleasby, Nottinghamshire, covering 26.8 miles.

On the second day Ricky set off from Bleasby making his way to Derby, finishing the last few miles on unlit roads in the dark, covering 26.8 miles.

Day three saw his other brother David Houston join him on his bike, and friend Sam Crofts tagged along from Brighton to run a half marathon.

“Sam really helped me gather momentum especially on a road called 'Long Lane' that was a killer as was very hilly and straight,” Ricky said.

“When Sam departed, David opted to run for a few miles with me which was great and again helped me keep going.

“Andrew was brilliant at navigating and took all responsibility for the route ensuring we never went wrong which was crucial.”

After 30 miles the trio stopped off The Weathervane hotel in Stoke-on-Trent, who provided a complimentary room with breakfast.

Ricky’s wife Helen joined Ricky on the fourth and final day, offering support along the way and   posting updates of her husband’s progress.

Andrew continued his role as navigator, and Dave opted to run the first stint, managing 10 miles to help keep his brother motivated, something that was much needed given the unexpected terrain.

“I never realised Stoke was on a hill, it was hills after hills,” he said. “When I got into Sandbach I had a nice welcome from my friends and family which cheered me up greatly.

“My friend Lee Mitchell joined me at this point with 10 miles to go and promised he would get me to the finish, which he did brilliantly, he defiantly helped me gain momentum. Along Sandbach Road and coming into Winsford I received loads of support from friends and family with banners and cheering. 

“Coming down Station Road a friend Steph Billinge joined me for the last mile which was great, and meant a lot to me.

“Once I climbed Weaver Street I felt my adrenaline erupt as I seen my family and friends gathered at the entrance to St Luke's Hospice which was an amazing feeling, I couldn't help myself but sprint to meet them.

“It was great to speak to everyone who had supported me throughout the year, as without them it wouldn't have been possible.”

His valiant efforts have raised St Luke’s around £5,000, and Ricky, who is set to do a tour of the Falklands later this month, says the hospice’s life changing work was what pushed him through those final miles.

“There were times where you want to stop, but I just kept thinking about St Luke’s and what they do for the community,” he said.

Rhys Edwards, Community Fundraiser for St Luke’s Hospice, said: “Ricky has been an inspiration to so many people. He has pounded the streets for miles, raising thousands of pounds for St Luke’s.

“Ricky, your efforts have made such a difference to the lives of people who need the hospice. Thank you so much, we really do appreciate it.

“We wish you the very best of luck with your tour of duty.”

Ricky admits he still hates running, but says he’d love to do another challenge for St Luke’s in the future.

To donate to St Luke's Hospice, click here.