Matty's Big Run - John o' Groats to Lands End.

Final Total

2010-11-27T10:51:00.000Z

Ok folks, the total raised by Matty for the three charities stands at a fantastic..........

£6000

A HUGE thank you to all who have contributed and helped along the way. Outstanding work!

Funds Update

2010-11-07T08:55:00.000Z

Dear all, the total raised so far for Matty's Run is

£5034.17

Thank you all so very much. Money is still coming in which is great but we would like to have a final figure soon so we can get the money to the charities. So, if you have sponsor money to give to Matt could you please get it to him, or me, as soon as possible.
Thank you once again for you generosity.

Praise INDEED!

2010-10-20T08:24:00.003+01:00

A Letter from Buckingham Palace

"The Queen has asked me to thank you for your letter of 13th September.

Her Majesty was most interested to learn that your son recently completed a run of 873 miles from John O' Groats to Land's End in order to raise funds for the various charitable organisations which supported his friend, who had a serious motorcycle accident in 2009.

I would be grateful if you could convey to Mr. Matthew Harrison The Queen's warmest good wishes and congratulations for having successfully completed the run, and Her Majesty hopes that his friend recovers quickly from his injuries.

Your thoughtfulness in taking the time and trouble to write as you did is much apppreciated.

Yours sincerely,

Mrs. Sonia Bonici

Senior Correspondence Officer"

And his certificate of completetion from the End To End Club:

Money is still trickling in but we are heading for around £5000. If you have sponsored Matt or promised a donation, could you please get the money to him as soon as possible so we can present it to the charities.

THANK YOU

Fundraising

2010-09-20T14:54:00.000+01:00

Thank you to everyone for their support and donations. The big 'homecoming' event managed to raise £1076.30 on the night, and the grand total is still being added to. Thank you to Colin for organising the event and Debs for the super food! The auction for Matt's smelly, unusable size 9 trainers, raised £100!

Keep looking in from time to time for updates on the total raised..........

The FINISH!!!

2010-09-13T18:35:00.002+01:00

12:20 approx.

Matty Hit the Finish Line at Land's End!!!! YEEEEEE HAAAAAAA

more later...we are in Bristol on the way home.....................

We finally got back around 10:30 ish in the evening....travel weary...........and very quiet....

It's a strange feeling when something that you've planned for for months, and Matt's trained for and gone through the pain of achieving, suddenly comes to an end. Relief, certainly, HE'S DONE IT!! But tinged, for me anyway, with a little sadness.....it's all over, no more routine, no more getting MM breakfast in bed, easing his aching muscles (for that he will be eternally grateful I'm sure!)...hopping from one layby to the next...........hey but WHAT an acheivement.

Corinne and Jan and David (Matt's brothers' father-in-law, were there to see him get his final 'stamp' on his transit verification form......to prove he'd done it. A proud moment.

We've met many people along the way, from the cyclists, also doing the same journey (for all different reasons) to the people in lay-bys offering money .....to the people who have very kindly opened their homes to us......if I've forgotton to mention anyone's name, please forgive me. Our heartfelt thanks goes out to each and every one of you. For you too, have helped Matty on his way. The baths and warm beds kept him going. We can't thank you enough. And also thank you to EVERYONE who has donated, or will donate, to the 'cause'. A truly great achievement for Matt, but let's not forget why he went through this pain (and pain it certainly was). Let's help him once more; to raise lots of money for the three charities that helped Chris Taaffe and saved his life.

Our blog is at an end.....................but should Matt ever want to do anything like this again, wherever it may be.................count me in!

The last stamp!

Is he going to smile?

YES, he is!

Racing for the line...........

The last night's camp

Monday 13th September - Day's End - Land's End

2010-09-13T09:40:00.000+01:00

09:35
We spent a nostalgic last night in the tent with Corinne and Jan. somehow it seemed like home as we haven't camped since Preston. MM had run just too far to make our last booked accommodation feasible, so we went for the camping option. A dry and fairly warm night and not too much condensation.

Matt started his day in the 'traditional' camp way, with breakfast in bed...I do spoil him so ! Porridge and maple syrup. Then on the road and running by about 08:15. Only 16 miles to go so he is taking it easy. He's extremely tired now, and still won't relax until he's over that line......

The camp and tent is all packed away....for the final time..............and we are now all off to catch up with speedy and await his appearance at Land's End. It all seems pretty surreal. With any luck we should be home some time tonight......

As soon as I get a chance I will upload photos of the finish....YAY!!!! Rock on Matty Moon...........Run Forest RUN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sunday 12th September - The Penultimate Day!

2010-09-12T09:39:00.001+01:00

09:30

MM was running at 08:30 this morning. The sun is shining and all bodes well for a good days running. He had a good calf massage last night and an ice pack on his lower shins. Very stiff this morning, but usually once he starts running things settle down a bit. Not long to go now..........46 miles to Land's End!

20:20
Sitting in tent with MM, Corrine and Jan drinking wine and having a good old chat about the run!!
Today Matt saw Nigel the one tooth wonder.......who was overwhelmed about what Matt was doing and kept shaking his hands.........Today Matt saw Land's End on the sign post.........Today...we saw the sea for the first time since Scotland............Tomorrow.............Matt will have reached his goal..............

~Ironically......................today there was a charity run by 1,400 bikers, an annual event. Unfortunately the road was closed for a while because one of them came off and got hurt...................it just brought home the reason why Matt is doing this run..............he had to run past the guy in the road..............please give as much as you can............every little helps...........

Saturday 11th September- quote: "keep your feet dry and your spirits high" unquote........

2010-09-11T13:08:00.001+01:00

12:37

My word...nearly lunchtime already!
A nice little quote from Dan (MM's Brother) to start the blog today! It came out in conversation last night..........you had to be there..........but it does sum things up nicely....if Matt doesn't get rained on and his feet aren't wet, the day is a whole lot better.......naturally.

Well...had a visit from Fran and Jo today, on thier way home from hols in Polperro....probably spelt that wrong.....it was great to see them. Fran ran for a couple of miles with Matt..............pictures to follow.

We've just passed the sign for Jamaica Inn on the top of Bodmin and MM's already reached the point where he should stop today (because he's been doing extra miles). So...bonus miles from now on, and all is looking good for the finish on Monday. It feels very strange......very strange indeed. We've met some super people......only an hour or so ago I met up with a support vehicle for some chaps on bikes, that are doing a charity thing for soldiers...not the 'Heroes' thing....the cyclists came in, had a whip round and put some dosh in the bucket.....THANK YOU. And again a great big THANKS to everyone who has offered and opened their homes to us two weary travellers, who nobody knows from Adam, and for making us so welcome.

More later....time to move on and catch up with speedy..............

17:34
Coming up to the end of another days running for MM. We had a later start today (9:30), so it's 'just' the 30 miles today! However, because he's still got miles in hand, this still gives him a head start on tomorrow.We've finished up almost to Indian Queens I think.......MM's legs are feeling the hills a bit today, some very long climbs and slopes;......a good old sort out with the thumbs should get him moving again....and an ice pack or two......he's going to hate me for life! He'll soon be running again...............in the opposite direction when he see me coming!

I'm not sure if I'll have WiFi tonight, but will upload the pictures of today if I do. Another traveller in a layby gave some more money to the cause today too. I think I forgot to mention.............Matt has taken to wearing my clothes!!!!!...A very nice little red number......he calls it PINK....but it's IS RED.....long sleeves......matches his ginger beard completely...NOT! Don't worry......it was earlier on in the trip when we got cold and wet and he needed a long sleeved top..........he blatantly refused the high heels though......said they weren't good to run in or something....can't think why............

Well, strike a line through Saturday...only Sunday and Monday left.....Whoop, Whoop!

Friday 10th September- Okehampton here we come

2010-09-10T11:06:00.080+01:00

11:00
Let's start with some Thanks
Thank you to Ellen at Selby House, Wellington, Taunton, for a lovely B+B and kind donation to the cause.......We recommend highly her B+B and friendly welcome, if you are ever in the area, this is the place to stay.

Thank you to Amanda, who booked and paid for the above B+B and ran with Matt yesterday. She is thinking of doing the JOGLE challenge herself, we wish her a good trip.

Thank you to Dan and Kath (MM's brother and co) for a lovely night's sleep! Haven't slept so well in ages......

Thank you to the man behind me in the same lay-by who just gave some money for the cause.....he is supporting a cyclist doing the same thing as us.....

Matt started running about 08:30 and has now covered approx 11 miles so far today. His leg is looking much better but the ups and downs of the hills are starting to play his knees up. But...his head is down, his mind is focused and he's planning to finish on Monday evening. We'll take a few pics then jump in the Landy and drive straight home......

21:30
Matt again did brilliantly today and covered 35 miles. We are now on the A30.....the last road, and over the border into Cornwall, the last county. Just 77 miles to go...............just...Matt won't talk about 'getting closer' or 'nearly there now', until he crosses the line...then, and only then will he relax.

Dan, MM's brother joined him today after he'd been at work all day, and ran with him for 3 miles.....Well Done Dan. Then he drove with us to our overnight stop to show us the way. A good move, as I don't think we would have found it otherwise. It's a beautiful old farmhouse in the middle of nowhere, with lovely quirky walls and floors. The kind of place I've dreamed about for years, but is a nightmare to decorate......but that doesn't matter because it all adds to the charm. Thank you Daphne and David (Matt's brother's in-laws) for inviting us into your home..(well me in particular).....eternally grateful.

Well, it's time for bed now....and sleep....if only I could stop coughing......always gets worse at night.........tomorrow's weather is looking good......Run Forest Run!!!
But before I nod off, here's a selection of photos from the last couple of days......

The loneliness of the long distance runner....
Spot the Hi Viz...

Devon cows off to milking........and some Devon hills....

Chocolate box villages.......and moody skies........

MM's new mascot.....the Meerpup..

Sunset over Taunton.........

And a cheer for the man himself!!

Thursday 9th September - T to T-Taunton to Tiverton

2010-09-09T11:13:00.001+01:00

10:50
The sun is shining!! It's looking to be a good running day for MM! We pummelled his poor legs last night and that's the first time in ages he's had to stifle the screams....he's really hurting, people. We put freeze spray on his ankle this morning and wrapped it in a cooling compress bandage. Once he gets running it seems to ease off a bit. So fingers crossed. I would like him to actually ENJOY the last few days of his run! He's gone a bit quiet on me again, which usually means he's in a lot of pain or is struggling with the day...........it could also mean he's not talking to me any more because I got my evil thumbs out again!

I've managed to get some medication for my chesty cough and so, hopefully it will soon mend and MM won't be in mortal fear of getting ill any more.

We will be staying with his brother tonight somewhere in Exeter. If any body knows of someone in the Okehampton area who would be willing to give us a bed for the night, please do let us know.

OK...MM just checked in with his running partner Amanda. Re-sprayed and dressed his leg and he is off again......what a trooper! Now off to the next rendezvous point.......................................

A couple of shots of Matt running with Amanda this morning

Devon hills and skies!

And some 'Welsh Wales' from the other day...

The Clifton suspension Bridge

14:10
He's still running, we are through Tiverton and now on our way to Crediton...the boy just can't stop!! Go Matty GO my son!!

Wenesday 8th September - Where's the Cider?

2010-09-08T15:59:00.000+01:00

15:30
Sorry for the delay for all you early risers out there.....been doing other things today. Cleaning and tidying the Landrover for instance, and trying to find safe places to park...no hotspots or phone signal doesn't help any either.

Well, i8t has just started raining after such a lovely day. we have just gone through Bridgwater and North Petherton and MM is just polishing off a few extra miles before we finish for the night. As far as I can tell (Dr Bush's hat on) Matt has 'acute anterior compartment syndrome'. Basically over use of his lower leg muscle on his right leg also brought about by his overpronation on the right foot, something he had corrective trainers for.....until they wore out! The muscle, at the point where it joins the shin bone, and also deals with the lifting of the foot as you walk, has become over developed and is straining the sheaf which covers it. Lots of ice, rest (ha ha) and compression, plus deep muscle massage should help. But nthe only real cure is to lay off it! Not an option.....yet.

Won't be long though, we are still on track to finish next Tuesday 14th. Then Matt can have a well earned rest and sleep all the way home!....and when he gets back for the next three months!zzzzzzzzzzzz

Must say a big THANK YOU to Ian and Jan Bainbridge and family for putting us up last night even though they have lots of family descending on them today. A lovely meal and great company, thank you for your prayers and God Bless you all.

Also, a big thank you to Amanda from Chard Road Runners for finding, and paying for, a B+B for Matt and myself tonight. She will be running for a while with Matt in the morning.....all be it very slowly due to his leg trauma. Let's hope the sun shines on them.

Can't think of anything stupid I've done today....that either means I haven't done anything stupid, or my brain is failing and I can't remember ..........who said that?

We had a nice picnic today.....sausage rolls, hard boiled eggs (done in the back of the Landy), cheese and some of Joey's mums' home grown tomatoes...yum. Matt also had a packet of jaffa cakes , a tub of custard, and some fruitcake...oh and a packet of crisps.......mmmm.........and some sweet isotonic drinks......and another jaffa cake......

Must keep those calories up!

Matt thinks there is a conspiracy to kill him.....first he goes on this trip, then gets painfully pummelled with my devilish thumbs.....faces ugly drivers all day who really don't want him on THEIR road..........then his driver, soul mate and number one person (that's me.....modest!).......goes down with a bad chest and coughs all over him....well I try not to....but he says he has a sore throat.......no MATT..........it's ALL in the mind.........you are OK my lad....you just keep those feet a running, we only have a hundred or so miles to go!!

More later.......

Tuesday 7th September - A Bridge Too Far

2010-09-07T08:20:00.000+01:00

A dreadful end to the day yesterday. The rain was relentless and so was the wind. Not a good evening to cross the Severn Bridge! Poor MM had already covered over 30 miles but was determined to get across the bridge.....and he did.....but ended up completely soaked to the skin and so cold he could hardly move his hands. Good job I had phoned ahead and booked a room at the Travelodge at the end of the bridge.....straight into a HOT bath, no cold today my boy! And a nice cup of hot tea as well, then a hot meal, massage and BED!

Matt is having problems with his RIGHT leg now......first one, then the other...it really is quite stiff and sore. But, we managed to get the other one going so we can keep this one going too...just another challenge along the way of a host of daily challenges on this trip. Keep the prayers coming...they are needed.

We've had a late start today, in an effort to get some well earned rest, but are heading for Bristol airport and a stay at some family friends of Matts'. At the moment the sun is shining (typical)...let's hope it stays that way.

Have a good day everyone, and hope that we do too, on the home straight now!

Monday 6th September- 'it's Welsh Wales isn't it'

2010-09-06T11:04:00.001+01:00

10:45 still in search of a descent WiFi Hotspot.
Firstly a very big THANK YOU to Paul and Ali for their hospitality last night. They were perfect hosts and had absolutely no idea we were coming until the last minute! Sorry we killed your tumble drier, I hope it can be revived soon! ;-) and thank you for going out extra early to the Launderette to get our clothes dry. We will be eternally grateful.

Matt started running about 8:50 this morning after massaging his aching calf muscles and his right ankle, which is giving him a bit of grief. I think it could be the new trainers as everything had settled down nicely before he changed them. All will be well, I'm sure of it. Spirits are still high and we are both looking forward to getting 'across the water' today and into Bristol. By then MM would have run the length of Scotland and Wales..

We are currently a few miles from Monmouth on the A466. A much quieter road for MM to run on and back into the countryside, which is nice. The weather so far is good and no sign of the forecast heavy rain....even better!

I, however, seemed to have developed some kind of chest infection.....quite painful, but have taken some pills and am trying to ignore it, and also trying to keep it away from Matty!! Arrgghhh.....that would be disastrous given his weak chest!

I am sitting in the entrance to a field full of sheep and they have all started to congregate around the gate....maybe they think they are going to get fed....BaaaaH........more later....Baaaah.....Baaahh....JB

Sunday 5th September - 600 miles today!

2010-09-05T11:27:00.002+01:00

11:15

Hi all, no connection last night so couldn't write any more.

A big THANK YOU to Vivy Violet for giving us a bed last night and for the food and cooked breakfast...thanks also to Poppy the dog and Thomas the cat.

Very wet here this morning, so the Landy has yet another use to add to the list of useful things a Landrover can do........a clothes drier!! Full blast on hot with the windows open, else I would steam!! mmmmm(thinks)....Landrover sauna?....mmmmm

Matt's mum and dad are due to join us very soon. They have arrived at Leominster and we are about 3 miles from there. The rain has just eased off a bit, so fingers crossed, but the forecast is NOT good for next week.....heavy rain every day. That won't please Matthew 'run in the sun' Harrison!

I have a few more pictures to upload as soon as we get a good enough connection speed, nothing much so don't get excited too much, there hasn't been a lot to photograph!

16:15

Just uploaded a video of Matt running with his mum into Hereford...... .................................................and here's his dad!!!

It's been a fun day and I'm sure Matt's enjoyed the company..thanks mum and dad for coming to see him.......

one for Muttley 'give me an aga' Halstead

Sunrise from the bedroom window this morning at Viy's house

And here's MM yesterday in the sunshine.........................

Saturday 4th September-Total miles today 570!!

2010-09-04T13:12:00.000+01:00

12:55

Matt started around 08:30 this morning, a little stiff, but making good progress. We've been through Shrewsburyand are cracking on to Newington near Craven Arms on the A49. Traffic not too bad today but still a bit on the busy side, but less lorries...sorry Sue! 570 miles by close of play today, that means only 330 to go....soon be home, put the kettle on!

A big THANK YOU to Joey's mum for putting us up last night, for the lovely steak and chips and the cooked breakfast this morning...also for Pip the Jack Russell puppy who entertained until she dropped! At this rate I'll have to start running with Matt to get rid of the pounds.....I did loose some with putting up and breaking camp.....not enough exercise now....but beats a cold wet tent.

Well, isn't Matt doing well???? He's looking forward to the finish and won't relax until he crosses the line at Land's End. If you are planning to come and join him or see him then now is the best time as we are the closest to Norfolk we will get over the next couple of days...almost directly opposite. It would nice if some of his mates could make it and cheer him on a bit...or maybe meet at us the end for a real celebration!

Well done Jan for getting a letter into the EDP paper about the run...we and others have been trying local radio and papers on the way through, but no luck. This man deserves a MEDAL!

more later................

Friday 3rd September - Joey's mums

2010-09-03T22:08:00.001+01:00

Well, finally got a signal at Joey's mums house. Haven't managed to get one all day, even my mobiile was rubbish All settled in for our overnight stay. Matt had a bit of a 'confusing' start today. First it was very foggy/misty and quite cold, just what MM doesn't like. Then after a few miles into his run he found a wallet in the road.....two or three steps further on, a driving license...there was quite a lot of money and a post dated cheque in the wallet, so Matt met me at the next stop and we plugged the post code from the license into the sat nav. It wasn't far away so we decided to make a short detour and take it to the man who'd lost it. He wasn't in, probably at work so we left it with a note to say what Matty was doing and how we found it.......hoping that he might make a donation in thanks....we'll see. He's definitely a lucky man to get all that money back.

The sun finally emerged and MM had a good finish to the day, another 30 miles under the belt and closer to our goal. We are currently in Malpas near Chester. Tomorrow we will be staying around Shewsbury at a friend of Matty's mums.

Matt got lost on his own today....nothing to do with me this time! He took a wrong turn and ended up running towards Chester instead of Shrewsbury! JB to the rescue.......and got him back on track. He's really doing well, and thanks to the regular cold and hot bath treatment he hasn't need a massage for the last couple of days......my thumbs are redundant. He's wearing in a new pair of trainers today....he's worn the heel right off of his favourite pair.

No pictures today either....there's not been much to take to be fair, it's gone very flat and besides there's not that many places to stop and not much greenery between towns and cities at the moment. Soon maybe......the traffic was too busy today to hop out and take random pics of Matt running...he'd do no good with a flat driver! Oh, just remembered something else that happened yesterday. My John o' Groats to Land's End book decided to throw itself out of the car window as I was driving along....I stopped and tried to rescue it but it was in the middle of a duel carriageway and far too dangerous to pick up, so, there it lies.....a very useful resource if any one should come across it...has a couple of pages missing as they blew towards me down the road....a sad loss.

Well, we have to be up at 6 in the morning, Matt has retired to bed and I must follow as I'm tired too after all the driving....

Keep looking in and posting messages guy and gals...they really do perk us up...I've been feeling a bit homesick today...but hey...tomorrow is another day....night,night .......zzzzzzzzzzzz

Thursday 2nd September - R Kid

2010-09-02T11:07:00.002+01:00

10:55 am
Well MM polished off another 37 miles yesterday! by this rate we'll be home next week! Lord knows what he'll do today...

I am presently just the other side of Wigan waiting for MM to find his way through the road system...another nightmare....it's hard enough in a car let alone on foot. Still, he has my quirky directions sheet and map and we phone each other if he gets lost....when we have a signal!......ooooh, ok, no panic, he's here. Quick change of shirt and a drink and a few nibbles to refuel, and off he goes again...

11:50...
another move, another wifi hotspot found....as we go further south it's getting easier to find wifi hotspots, but less easy to get anywhere to park! The weather here is fantastic, just as MM likes it,..me too! Glad you are all looking in on the blog. We've got one more night at Caroline's then on to Joey's mums... We had a lovely chicken curry last night and this morning I had freshly laid eggs on toast...(Well, they were poached first!), MM had a lovely bowl of 'overnight porridge' cooked in the AGA...scrummy, thanks Caroline. And thanks also for doing all our washing!! We smell a bit nicer now........we have managed to get our clothes washed most days, but the bedding was well overdue! Right. I'm off to find a nice lay-by or quiet place to get everything out of the landrover and have a sort out......bit like doing the housework really!
......................

20:25
Just the 30miles today! It's been really hot here and MM ditched his small backpack and water and I caught up with him after every 3 miles or so for topping up , wiping down and changing shirts. The traffic was a nightmare too, but overall a very good day, and MM and his body are holding up well. It's pretty flat here in comparison to Scotland and the Lakes so Matt's able to get a good stride on and there are paths and cycle lanes which come in very handy. Not really much else to report really. All is well. Early start in the morning, away by 6:30 for the drive to Sandiway where MM finished today...the miles are ticking away nicely. Time for bed....zzzzzz

Wednesday 1st September - a bit more

2010-09-01T23:10:00.000+01:00

Well, Matt did 37 miles today and made it to Standish! There's just no stoppong him at the moment...the weather is helping, it's been fantastic, sunnyh and hot, just the way Matt likes it.

A great BIG thank you to Caroline and family for putting us up for a couple of nights and giving us such a big welcome. it's so ice to be out of a cold, damp tent for a while.

Just a few photos to keep you going....11:10pm...time for bed.. night night.................zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Wednesday 1st September- The boy just can't stop running!

2010-09-01T10:59:00.000+01:00

10:00 am

Matt had a brilliant day yesterday, he just wouldn't stop running; the weather was good he felt good and he was enjoying it! His total miles yesterday was 40...yes 40 miles! He wanted to reach Lancaster and he did.

This poses a small problem with accommodation, as we'd booked in for 3 nights at the same campsite and now he's just too far away from it to make it feasible to go back. It was over an hours journey this morning to get him back to the same spot, so by the time he's finished tonight we'll be miles away!

Weather here is good again today so I expect MM to keep running again, although he's pretty tired after yesterday!

Go Matty GO!!!........

more later...........I hope, the connection is not good so I go in search of...a) a good wifi hotspot, b) MM, c) a rubbish bin, as the landrover is starting to look like a tip!

Catch you all later....................

Tuesday 31st August

2010-08-31T10:54:00.001+01:00

Hi peeps, sorry yesterday's blog was missing, we had no signal in the camp at all, so here I am in a lay-by, once again, trying to catch up.

It was FREEZING last night, the condensation in the tent was so bad we got dripped on....hey ho, the joys of camping. Matt is doing well, with any luck he should reach around about the half way mark today. His speed has increased a little but now we are back in the hills he knee might not like it much. We'll see. Otherwise all is fine.

Nick and Kelly joined us yesterday with the grandchildren, so I will have some company for a while, but they will be out enjoying while I'm out stalking Matt!

MM is getting VERY bored.....same thing day in day out....so if he can get a signal, why don't you try an give him a ring during the day so he has a bit of a distraction? If you can't get through then leave him a message and when he stops he'll get back to you.

Not much else to report at the moment and I have to get on the ove again. I'll try my best to write some more later ......

6:25pm...Matt has decided to keep running....he wants to reach the city border of Lancaster, and he's less than a mile away from me so he WILL make it!! What a BOY, what an almighty effort! He's now HALF WAY!!!!!

I'm trying to persuade him to have a day off tomorrow or at least a 15 miler with no rushing about....I'll let you know how I get on. Not sure how long I'll have on this free wifi as Matt will be bouncing round the corner pretty soon..

He's had a really good day, after yesterday's battle with the boredom and the brainbox, he's definitely got himself back into gear and is heading for home.......via Land's End of course! WELL DONE R KID!!

We still have no mobile signal of any description on the campsite we are staying in at the moment. Thursday will be the big day for photos, unless I strike lucky on the road tomorrow.....watch out Caroline, We Are on OUR WAY!!

Sunday 29th August - To the Border!

2010-08-29T11:33:00.002+01:00

Sunday Morning:
Today is another GREAT milestone for MM...today we reach the Border and will back in England....HOOORAYYYY!!

We had a very good night in the B&B/Hotel, excellent food and accommodation and best of all...FREE WiFi. Matty started later today as breakfast wasn't until 8 and he has to wait an hour for it to digest before he can start running. But, on his way he is, to the border and Gretna Green.......there was some talk about marriage, but I reminded him that I was already married and it was against my religion.....so he's going to get some waif or stray as he passes.....NO NOT REALLY......just jesting on our part. However, psychologically today will be good for MM, the race for home is on and by Tuesday, if all goes well, we will be at the HALF WAY mark. WELL DONE R KID!

For those of you our there that are worried about MM's health and the way he looks in the pictures.....please do remember that most of them are taken after he's run 30 odd miles and he is extremely tired! (and in quite some physical pain). He's not going to look his best and quite frankly I HATE the beard! Doesn't do a thing for him....in my humble opinion of course! Honestly, he is in fine fettle and fighting fit, as far as I can tell he has not lost any weight (he had none to lose let's be honest!), he has toned very nicely, but his face isn't drawn......never believe a photograph....the shadows under his eyes.....are just tiredness and are gone by morning, believe me.... so, don't worry, I'm looking after him and he definitely is looking after himself as far as diet and calories go, he knows his body and what he's doing. Just cheer him on as best you can with phone calls, txts, facebook and comments on these pages, it will do him good believe me......and most of all spread the word and get your friends, family, cousins, the person next door, the man in the street..to donate for these worthy causes and make Matty's Run worthwhile.

More later.................

HE'S THERE! At approximately 13:35 Matt got married to the sign.......

And at approx. 13:50 MM stepped back into England...........All those at Sunday club in the Gardie have a drink on us!! CHEERS!!

Saturday 28th August......Lockerbie in sight

2010-08-28T14:54:00.001+01:00

Today is the day I want to pick Matt up and run with him on my shoulders........

Another early start today, away from the camp at 7.15 ish.....definitely not enough sleep! Very cold last night although Matt says he wasn't too bad. I had to cover my head up with my sleeping bad to stop my nose and cheeks from freezing! Brrrr, the evenings and the the mornings are certainly getting cooler.

MM is very tired today, but is still running and looking forward to his cold bath tonight! (I think by the end of this trip both of us will be insane, out with the white jackets with the funny sleeves). Sometimes we are so tired we can't speak properly, let alone think......even a simple question either results in the wrong answer or the brain in total shut down.....we just end up shaking our heads and laughing at each other.......never mind, nothing a good sleep won't cure.

MM,s knee is playing up again today, just as we thought everything was settling down nicely. It's been the cause of most of his problems so far and it doesn't seem to want to play ball. All we can do is strap it up and give it some TLC when he's stopped running, i.e. hot and cold treatment and a massage with pain killing cream. Spirit wise, he's having a tough day; this morning was fine, but the pain gets to him after a while and Matt doesn't like running slow. All we can do is take one day at a time and overcome any challenge that is sent our way, whether injury or accommodation, just to plain old tiredness.

MY GOODNESS!!!! What a dreary entry this is!!

I stopped in a bus stop a while ago in the middle of nowhere, there just happened to be one house there, after a while a man knocked on my window and offered a fiver for the run...now how cool is that! He'd come out of his house and said, 'you never know when you are going to need those services, please take this for the pot'......and duly placed it in our collection box. He used to play ruby apparently and also has a dodgy knee himself so he knows how MM is feeling, does a lot of walking too and is planning to walk across the Sahara........wow..

The weather is a bit 'on and off' today, first rain, then sun, and a bit of wind to top it off...no, it's not the beans MM had for breakfast yesterday! So, have been doing a lot of short hops today, leapfrogging MM so he can change his clothes or get some more water, or check his ankles and feet and have some cream rubbed in. So, sitting here in a lay-by waiting for him to jog round the corner again. Sometimes he doesn't stop, just runs on, so I drive on a few miles and wait for him again.....and so the day goes on until the 30 miles are up. Today we haven't got to make camp as we are staying in a hotel in Lockerbie. That will be good for MM as he can have a proper bath and rest.

That's about it for now...I should be able to get some pictures on tonight with any luck, so pop back and check. Thanks to all who have donated so far, please keep it coming.

...MM just dropped by and I asked him what he wanted to say to all you bloggers.......he says " It F*****ng hurts!"....end of quotes, then he was gone again........

Signing off at 14:50...and hoping it doesn't rain any more...

MM's country residence

Camp at Aviemore...ground like concrete!

Hi Jan, thanks for dropping in.....

I'll catch the bugger if it kills me!! ?ang on Matty, wait for me!!!!!!

MM in the wilds of the Scottish moors....run Matty Run!

Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.....

Ahh...nice...............

soggy camp :-(

MM's Lucky Mascot....she has a kilt! och....

you pronounce it as you will, Matt and I have our own way of saying it, you'll have to ask when we get back!

Come back Matty! I promise I'll put my thumbs away!!

a little goldfinch having his lunch

And, finally, from the man himself...the wildman of Borneo.......

Hello everyone its me taking a break from putting one foot in front of another for a sec. Well nearly done two weeks running and nearly got through one country and nearly halfway through!! All good news but its horrible, running everyday for about 10hours as injuries are slowing me down....but hey ho was never going to be easy so its head down and keep plodding on and turning those miles over......don't think I will every run again! Long way to go so support is a must....it seems like a life time....highs and lows everyday but all for a good cause so watch this space to see if I can do it xxx

JB here again, bye for now as we are knackered and need to sleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeppppppppppppppppppppppzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Friday 27th August - Shhhhh

2010-08-27T13:57:00.000+01:00

Don't say it too loudly.............."THE SUN IS SHINING"....SSHhhhhhhhhh! A very late night last night, by the time we'd driven 50 odd miles to the campsite, set up, showered eaten, washed up, done the washing and the drying....massaged limbs, caught up on phone calls.......zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.......

Early start too, as we had to travel 50 miles back to the drop off point for 8am! So, up, wash, tea and breakfast in bed for Matty (so, so spoiled!), then hit the road. We are having to play 'catch up' a bit, as we are a bit behind on the miles side of things due to Matt's injuries. However, by the time we reach Preston and stay at Caroline's we should be back on track and only a couple of days behind. so, what's a few extra miles by car? I hope you are all keeping tabs on the movements so you can make a good guess at the total car mileage competition in the Garden House? Are our postcards getting through?

Matt's going great guns today, in fact he's just passed me again. I expect by the time I've finished this he'll be another 5 miles ahead of me...that man can MOVE when he puts his mind to it. I'm afraid he just doesn't get the time to blog at the moment, perhaps Saturday he'll have a look and write something for you all if I pester him! I'll also be able to upload some pictures I hope as we are staying in a hotel again so Matty can have a good soak and cold baths again...Brrrrr. Speaking of cold...really getting cold up here at night now.....loads of condensation inside the tent......drip, drip.

MM (Matty Moon) blisters have almost healed, his heel doesn't hurt once he gets going, his shins don't bother him any more, but he is still having trouble with his left knee....duly strapped and taken care of.........his calves are definitely stronger......all-in all.....considering the task, he's doing jolly well!

Please keep those donations coming in....it's what this is all about.....The Air Ambulance, which saved Taff's life, the Critical Care Unit that brought him through those first vital weeks, and the Specialist Rehabilitation Hospital where Chris is now making progress.......................we never know when we might need them.

Talk again soon...............the intrepid two.........

Thursday 26th August - Round and round we go!

2010-08-26T16:35:00.000+01:00

Oh boy, what a day! We left our campsite at Craigendmuir at about 7 this morning. Jan was off back to Norfolk, thanks Jan for all your help, (and the wine) I don't know what I would have done without you....a couple of real tough days!

Matt and I made our way to the drop off point, duly found, and all was well. However, Glasgow is a nightmare at the moment, there are more roadworks than you can shake a stick at. And getting onto roads that don't exist any more because they dug them up is no easy feat. The long and the short of it all is that Matt and myself ended up going round, and round, and round, and round bloody roadworks for about 2 hours and not getting any further south! Signs? WHAT signs? I thought Norfolk was bad for road signs, but on the whole Glasgow takes the winning ticket....hardly any at all! Thank goodness for mobile phones else today would have been the day I lost Matty Moon.....left alone, for ever to wander the streets of Glasgow in ever decreasing circles.

On a lighter note, once we found each other and had a good moan, Matt had some lunch and pushed on....easy when you know where you are going. He's making very good progress and aches and pains, although still there, don't seem to have held him back today. The only thing is time as we've lost a couple of hours so he'll have stop so we can drive to camp and pitch up for the night.

Not a lot else to report really today.....except we are both very tired...zzzzzzzzzzzz.......IF I can get a WiFi connection tonight, I'll upload some pics, we have some crackers, so keep dropping by..........................

Wednesday 25th August- Dry at Last!

2010-08-25T14:45:00.000+01:00

At last, a dry night and a drier morning. Tents dry, de-mudded and packed away. Matt had a restful night in the B&B. Thank you to K Johnson at Glenae, Ewenfield, Crief for looking after Matty so well and giving us a discount. I would highly recommend staying there if you are ever in the are, the house is ~GEORGOUS! And up for sale if anyone is interested!!

Matty paraded for inspection this morning after his cooked breakfast and yet another cold/hot bath treatment. His blisters are remarkably good and healing well. His swollen ankle is not so swollen and his shins hardly bother him at all. However, his muscles are still quite stiff, but as he was almost fell running yesterday and not on a flat surface, only to be expected really. He is still having problems with his left knee, which has been the cause of all his other injuries, but on the whole he has improved and is looking good. If sheer grit and determination had anything to do with it, Matty would be at Land's End today!

He's having a 'rest' day today and only doing 15 miles or so...then another 30 tomorrow. We are playing it by ear and taking one day at a time. In total we are only a day behind schedule so that's very good.

Jan and I had a 'busy' evening as the campsite we had booked did not mention that they didn't allow cars to be parked next to tents, and the car park was about 250 yards away! I tried to tell him we were not 'on holiday' and that ALL our equipment was in the Landrover and it was impossible to transport everything by hand, and also, what we were doing and why, but he would have none of it...the final straw was when he said he would get a 'man' to help carry the stuff, I told him to stick it and we'd go elsewhere! (I was tired......) We happened to find a lovely sight about a mile or two down the road called West Lodge. I would highly recommend this site. The owners couldn't have been more helpful and even offered to dry one our tents under their canopy for us. (they were still soaking and dripping from the previous morning). Everything there you could need, nice showers, laundry facilities, all kept clean and in order. I'd definitely go back again.

I'm still waiting for a WiFi connection to upload more photos, so please be patient, they are in the pipeline. My mobile phone is perfect for keeping you up to date but doesn't have the speed for picture uploads....it takes AGES!

Well peeps, Matt should arrive soon at his ten mile mark, so I will sign off and get his lunch and drinks ready...seen you all soon......

Tuesday 24th August-Rain rain go away....

2010-08-24T15:23:00.000+01:00

A really wet, wet night! Horrid, horrid, horrid! The man next to us went back home to Portsmouth at 10.30 in the evening because his tent was awash and everything got wet. We managed to get through, although even ours was starting to leak by the morning.

Last night's tea was fish and chips as it was too wet to cook, and this morning's breakfast was good old porridge.......with extra water.....from the rain.......

As usual Matty set off at around 8.30am, after repacking blisters and stretching out his aching legs. It's been a long hard day for him today, he has developed a new blister on his big toe (same foot as the others) which is giving him a lot of pain, but we have re-dressed it and he is on his way again. Roll on the finish of today's run when he can climb into the bath at his B&B and have a good rest. The good news is his shins have stopped hurting.....must be those magic thumbs!

At least the rain has held off for a while, let's hope he gets to the finish in the dry today, and we can put the tents up to dry out too.

I'll post some pictures later if I have a connection, we must go and find Matt again now and see how's he's getting on......I must have half of Boots the Chemist in my Landrover!!

Some more Pics

2010-08-23T16:23:00.000+01:00

some of the blisters.....no longer hurting as others things hurt more !

Quite a long way up!

stretching out those muscles.....

not as flat as Norfolk!

Our present camp at River Tilt, Blair Athol

Matt is not long from me now. Proudly being escorted back to base by Jan....both absolutely soaked! Me sitting here in the dry uploading piccies......it's a grand life! Catch you all laterbwith yet more pics......thank goodness for BTFON.

Monday 23rd August- 3.18. Aberfeldy or Bust

2010-08-23T15:54:00.000+01:00

Once again Matty has amazed me. It doesn't matter how knackered or in pain he is when he comes back in the evening, he showers, has food and a massage and by the morning he is up and ready to run again. The man has my admiration as I don't think I could do it.

Let me explain at little of what Matt is going through each day......30 miles of road and traffic....although he's now off the main roads for a while......pushing himself through the pain barrier, through wind and rain....occasionally sunshine! His shin splints are not quite as painful as they were (good news) but he has a very swollen ankle as the tendons connecting his foot are inflamed with over use and the fact that his left knee pain is causing him to run with an awkward gate and not the way he should (bad news). Still...........he goes on. NOT to prove a point, as he is in no way out to permanently damage his young body; but for Chris and the 'cause'. He needs your support...all the time.....but we need to make his effort worthwhile, so please donate what you can and show him the totals on the blog donate buttons are going up......this will make a huge difference to him at this time.

We have met many generous people on our journey who have given freely of their money and time to find out what Matt is doing. But not just money, offers of free swims and beds and cottages to stay in and people willing to pay for hotel rooms so he can soak his aching limbs in the bath. For all of this, Matty is extremely grateful,although at the back of his mind is 'the cause' and feeling that the money should not go to him, but to the charities he is running for. An added dilemma for him to brood over while he is running. For, if he can't keep running.......in his head.......'the cause' will fail.

So, the going is tough, not a run in the park, but a HUGE undertaking, which Matty has willingly taken on, not for self gain, but to raise money for charities that, one day, WE or somebody we know may need...............Run Matty.......run, run.............

Off my soap box....................Matty started running at 8 this morning, in good spirits and looking forward to getting onto some quieter roads. They were quieter all right...single track across the wild Scottish moors. Utterly stunning scenery, but a bugger on the knee. Up and down, round and round....more like Fell running than marathon running. Then, it started to rain with just ten miles to the finish. A quick change of clothes from the roaming support car, a bite to eat and within ten minutes, back on the road again....I'm waiting at Aberfeldy now to pick him up and take him back to the campsite where he still has another free swim and sauna booked. Today he will have reached the 210 mile mark.....in a week....

WELL DONE MATT R KID!!!!!!

Sunday 22nd August- Goodbye Aviemore

2010-08-22T09:45:00.000+01:00

Morning All, Sorry, no pictures until we get a proper WiFi connection. I'm using my phone as a modem at the moment, so very s-l-o-w. Well, today Matt is attempting a big 30 miles again today, his shins are shot and very painful, but he's doing his best. We are awaiting information from a physiotherapist about the best way to proceed and treat them. In the mean time Matt battles bravely on. He is very anxious to get running at full speed and is frustrated that his body is slowing him down. Chin up Matt...we are all with you in spirit.

We had a good night last night. Matt finished well early at 2 in the afternoon so it left time for a bit of shopping and postcard writing. I hope our cards are getting through to the Garden House? We also managed to get our washing done and dried and still had time for a fish and chip lunch in town and a pizza and a quick pint in the bar on site in the evening! I'm afraid Matt still didn't manage to avoid the women with the evil thumbs, but is not screaming so much now......are the muscles improving or my technique I wonder?

The scenery here is beautiful, I'd love to come skiing here, beats queuing up at the airport and checking in your skis. MMMmmm might just do that...pray for snow in the Highlands....but not at the moment please!

Today is the day that Jan joins us for a few days.....wow, it will be so different to have somebody to chat to face to face (apart from Matt of course), safe journey Jan and catch you this evening. The camp site last night was a bit like Fort Knox......you had to have a swipe card for entry into the shower block, then you had to swipe it again to get into the toilets, a card for the washing machines, a card for the driers, and a push button system to get out again! Blimey mate, I only want to camp for the night not steal the soap!

Not a lot more to say at the moment, Matt has just checked in at the layby and taken some more water and off he's gone again. Says he's fine....in the zone, so he doesn't say much. The clouds over the mountains are breaking up and the sun has started to shine............

Will talk more later if all goes well.....we might even get a swim in tonight as the the new site has a pool...Matt is thinking about dipping in one of the Lochs to get some ice treatment on his legs......

Saturday 21st August

2010-08-21T11:53:00.001+01:00

Hi, sorry to miss you yesterday, busy and no real time to catch up. However, here we are. Last night we stayed at Auchnahillin Campsite. Pretty small, pretty muddy but very nice, in the middle of nowhere. We met a nice family, also runners, that took the time to come over and have a chat to see what we were up to. They also made a very generous donation and an offer of their holiday cottage to stay over should we need it, so a BIG thank you to you.

I also need to say a big thank you to the remote team back at basecamp...Fran and Jan, who have helped me to rearrange things and update the plaves we are staying.

Matt is good today, his knee is feeling good, but we are not pushing it so only 15 miles again today. Tonight we will be staying at the High Range site in Aviemore. We are looking forward to having Jan come and stay with us for a few days starting tomorrow...safe journey Jan.

This morning we discovered that we'd driven 8 miles back to the startpoint with Matt's trainers tied to the front of the Landrover! They got wet yesterday and were hung out to dry....they got a bit of an extra super air dry this morning! At least they were still there and not lost

Matt wants me to tell you all that he is not shaving until he reaches Land's End.....OMG, shall we have a competition to see who can guess the length of his beard? LOL.

I'll upload some photos later, but for now I must get on to the next camp and set up the tent, go shopping, and stuff.....from JB, the expedition chief, cook, bottle washer, psychologist, doctor, driver, minder,chef, tent erector, camp organiser, laundry person, and general go-fa. Keeping watching this spot.....

Day Four- end of

2010-08-19T22:54:00.000+01:00

Sorry folks...me again. The demands on Matty's time for looking after his body don't allow much time for him to blog, so you'll have to put up with me for a bit.

It's been a very tough day today. Matt's left knee is giving him lots of problems and the blisters aren't helping much either. It's now 10:20pm and we've only just finished eating. We managed to get him a bath this evening so he's been giving his legs the ice and hot treatment, which after his massage feels like it did a lot of good. Not nearly as many knotted muscles to work out and less painful for Matt too.

You think I'm joking about the cold baths, here's Matt sitting in cold water with his beanie on and his hands round a hot cuppa! And you thought he was having fun...NOT!!

Look at those eyes...scared stiff of the dreaded thumbs to follow....

All joking aside, the traffic today was horrendous, all going far too fast, yes I know, we all do it, BUT you don't try and run a man off the road...which is what Matt came pretty close to today....I was scared and I was in a layby! Daring not to open the door for fear of it being ripped off in the bow wave as the traffic went past. Tut Tut motorists, give a man a chance!

Saw some more seals today too.....aahhhh..

Matt on the road today...head down and well focused, run Forest!

A couple of pretty pictures to end with tonight...one of the many bridges in this part of the country, this one is two miles long!

Invernesshire! Stunning or what?

And just to prove we really are here........going South....a long way South!

Go Matty GO!

Good night for now, me signing off at 10 minutes to 11, I'm shattered so I can't imagine what Matt feels like, but I do know he's still got a positive head on him and is praying that his body won't fail him.....keep up with the phone calls guys and thanks to those who have planned to join us for a day or two...please ring just to make sure where we are......it's a BIG country...night night zzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Day 4 the first Milestone - Inverness

2010-08-19T12:34:00.000+01:00

Hi all, just a quick message this morning....Matt is approaching his first milestone today, Inverness. He's been suffering a bit with a couple of blisters to his foot and his knee is playing up, so, have changed this evening's campsite for a bed in a premier inn so he can have a proper bed and a bath.

All is going well though and Matt is very positive and still raring to go although he's been in a lot of pain with knotted muscles. He's permanently afraid of my deadly thumbs and puts his pillow over his head to hide the screams when I massage them!

Thanks for all the comments once again, they are keeping us going for sure....Scotland can be a very lonely place...

Will try and post something this evening, must get back on the road to meet Matt and give him the good news that he has a bed for the night....
Byeeeeeeeeeeeee

Day 3

2010-08-18T13:53:00.000+01:00

Well, I hope you all appreciate the trouble I've gone to get on the blog today...here I am sitting in a lounge with a 1.30 karaoke session! HELP!! Anyway, Matt is still doing well. The weather yesterday was atrocious but he kept on going through wind and rain and many changes of clothes. He spent nearly 10 hours on the road yesterday so by the time he got back showered and ate it was late, then his legs stiffened up , but after a massage from the crazy women with the deadly thumbs (ME), he was able to move again, so we did the same this morning too. He set off later this morning and is going to take it a bit easy. He did extra miles yesterday, combined with a shorter run today, he's got less of a heavy day. Thank you all for your comments and phone calls. Keep them coming in, we both need them!

We've been lucky with the midges, hardly any.....and no bite, but the sea gulls here in Dornoch are something else...they tried to get in the tent last night!

The scenery is fantastic, even saw some seals/sea lions this morning , not sure which, I'll try and post a photo and you can choose.

Right, I'm going to try and upload some pictures...fingers crossed.........

This is Matt, with Louise and Robert who kindly ran with him on the first leg of his epic journey. Thanks again to you both.

Matt in the 'zone'.

A cheeky hen polishing off the rest of the pepper sauce left over from our steak.

First night's camp......

You choose, seals or sea lions?

The shores of Loch Brora where we stayed last night and tonight.

And one last one for now....Matt coming up to the 20 mile mark on his second day.

Remember me saying about the karaoke? I forgot to mention it was for 10 to 15 year olds.....I'm the only one here apart from three members of staff.....they've just given up and legged it!

Well I must say this is a treat, a)being able to get connected and b) being able to upload some photos. Bear with us, connections and battery life do not always coincide. I will always do my best to keep you updated. Thanks again for all your support, keep it coming.................

Day Two

2010-08-17T13:32:00.000+01:00

At Last! It's only taken me an hour to get things talking to each other! Technology....great when it works. Well I'm sitting in a lay by on the A9 near Helmsdale waiting for Matty in the pouring rain. It is tipping it down. Which is not good for Matt as visibility is low and the traffic here holds no punches. It will also slow him down. He's already changed clothes once. Poor Matt...this will be a day for me to keep his morale up!

Porridge for breakfast again this morning...Matt has maple syrup on his...full of calories...I stick to sugar and a strong cup of coffee. This morning it was sling it day. Sling it all in the back of the landrover and sort it out later! Everything was wet from the constant rain last night. I drove 8 miles back to Lybster to drop Matt off where I'd picked him up then went back to camp to pack up.

I've just had to close the window in the landy as the rain is blowing in!

Matt should be checking in again soon, so I will update this later and try and put some pics on for you all. I've just spent twelve minutes waiting for a picture to upload so I'll wait for free WiFi tonight at the campsite.

Love to all from Matt and me.

The end of day one

2010-08-16T21:33:00.000+01:00

Well......he's done it! The first day in the bag. The two runners, Robert and Louise (managed to meet up with her again and get her name!), got Matty off to a good start.

We saw several cyclists start at the same time but Matt was the only runner. The lady in the shop where he got his record stamped said he was either very brave.....or very stupid!Oh well, only time will tell on that one. We've had a very positive day. Matt's now in his sleeping bag after a nice shower and a dinner of peppered steak, fresh veg and mash potatoes all cooked on one burner and washed down with a very small glass of wine....well I couldn't waste it on Matt could I, he's not allowed to drink! We even had a table and chairs.

I'll try and get some pictures on here tomorrow, the connection at the moment is very slow and it's taking ages. I don't think there's enough battery left.

We've had a very successful first day..........keep watching this space...............

Day One

2010-08-16T11:50:00.001+01:00

Hey! Matty is on his way...ten miles covered so far. The weather is fine and all is looking good. Matt set off around 9.30 this morning with a couple of fellow runners, Robert and....sorry but can't remember her name! Oh dear, not a good start. But thanks to you both for giving Matty a good start.

Having trouble uploading pictures at the minute but will sort it later. I must get back on the road to meet Matty.

Ready to Go?

2010-08-13T14:19:00.000+01:00

Mmmm, ready or not, we will be on our way tomorrow morning. The landrover is packed, I'm packed, just a few more bits to throw in before we leave. What an adventure!

Looking forward to seeing some of you tonight for a glass or two..................

Stay tuned, and hope the technology doesn't fail us!
JB

Three days till the Off!

2010-08-11T08:52:00.000+01:00

Well, knees have started to tremble a bit.....and that's just mine! I can't wait to get on the road and I know Matt feels the same way. If you can help make the weather fine for us that would be great...not looking too good along the West Coast at the moment, nor up in the Highlands. Still, not to worry. Matt and I went to see Taff last night. He is doing really well and the nurses there have been asking him what he wants to write on Matt's blog and typing it in for him...which is great! They will all be following our journey from one end of the country to the other. We have had some fine offers from a couple of running clubs to run with Matt for a while, which will be a new experience for him as he's used to running on his own (run Forest!).

If you'd like to join us for a day or two just let us know my mobile # is 07771 892 007. I'll let you know exactly where we are. You don't need to run, just come and say hello, and I could sure use some company too!

Must go now, as busy, busy, have to go shopping for food for the trip....CHOCOLATE!...oh and some other stuff too....

Talk soon
JB

Twelve Days and Counting

2010-08-03T17:10:00.000+01:00

Hi all.....well, just 12 days to go before the off!! We will actually be leaving for Scotland on the 14th. Driving up to Falkirk, staying over night and then on to Wick on the 15th. A night in a campsite in Wick, drive up to John O' Groats and then Matt is on his way.

The route is on the blog for you all to follow. I will be updating as and when, as we may have to have rest here or there! It will be hard work following Matt with a big stick! If you can think of anything else that you may need to know while we are on the run, please email either Matty on mattysbigrun@hotmail.co.uk or me jackie.bush@btinternet.com. If I can get a signal, I'll get your email. Of course you can always ring Matt as he'll be waiting for your calls to come in and give him some encouragement.

If some of you do get to come and join us for a day or two, that would be great and much appreciated. Again, just contact us or look at the blog for details as to where we will be.

More updates soon
JB

Update

2010-07-17T09:20:00.000+01:00

Hi All, if there is anyone out there still following the blog....thank you. Preparations are well under way, campsites booked, vehicle prepared. Matt is doing well with his training. All is go, go go for the Big Run. We still need your support, so don't nod off to sleep. If you see Matt running, give him a toot and a cheer, he may not hear you as he'll be plugged in to his ipod, but he'll appreciated the gesture.

I'm going to try and put the route on in stages, not sure if it will work, but you will then be able to follow his progress day by day. We are still looking for runners to run with him. We have a few lined up for the Scottish bit, but if you can run, cycle, or just be there for him at any part of the run, please get in contact and I'll tell you where we will be and where we are staying. If you can't do any of these, then give him a call and you can cheer him along by phone and stop his brain going dead from boredom!

T-SHIRTS - there are still some left, in large and xl, we are on our second batch now, so get them while you can and help the charities at the same time.

That's it for now. Keep watching for updates to the blog and especially when he gets on his way on 16th August...
JB

THE RUN IS ON!

2010-06-24T15:35:00.000+01:00

Ok everyone Listen up........Matty WILL be running in August. We are going with the funds we have they're a bit short of the target but, we WILL make this run happen. So, come on all, pledge your support for Matt and give him lots of encouragement to stop his morale flagging. This is a HUGE undertaking for him and he is doing it for the right reasons.....remember Chris at this time, and help others who may end up in his situation.

We urgently need volunteers to help for a couple of hours on Thursday 17 July and Saturday 24 July to help pack bags in Tesco's and hopefully collect lots more money. A lot of effort has gone into organising this but without your help we will not be able to do it. It's only a couple of hours and transport will be provided. Come along and have some fun and raise money in the process. Also in order for us to organise a raffle/auction.......we need something to raffle or auction!! Donations please to Church View, next to the Garden House. If you still want t-shirts you can get them here too. We are taking orders for larger sizes should you require them.

If you can help in any way please email mattysbigrun@hotmail.co.uk

Thank You

T-Shirts are HERE!!

2010-06-04T17:41:00.000+01:00

Hi All,

T-shirts have arrived.

Get them hot off the press and be one of the first to wear them. Give us an email or see Matt. Price as advertised (£15) in Medium and Large. If you need a bigger size please let us know as we are taking orders now.

More about T-Shirts

2010-05-21T20:22:00.001+01:00

We are now able to offer
'Matty's Big Run' T-shirts.

Hopefully available some time next week. They will cost £15 each. We have tried our hardest to make them cheaper but are unable to do so because of the high cost of printing set-up charges. However, they are quality T-shirts and you will not be disappointed with your bespoke shirt! They are blue in colour with white design, and will be available in medium or large.

Other sizes will be available on request when we re-order, which we will most definitely have to.

So, if you want to get your order in, let us know by email, mattysbigrun@hotmail.co.uk

Update on funds

2010-05-04T21:39:00.000+01:00

Hi all, just to let you know that the total raised at the fundrasing gig has gone up to....................

£891

Brilliant....Thank You.

Matty's Big Fundraising Gig - THANK YOU!

2010-05-03T10:45:00.000+01:00

Wow!! A BIG thank you to all who helped last night go with a BANG! Thanks to those all who helped behind the bar,on the bbq and boot sale,on the collection boxes and stickers. To TARA and DYFA for such fantastic music, and most of all to those who dug deep into their pockets-in fact the bar ran out of change!Without counting the money from the bbq and boot sale we raised £536-not including what went into the other charity buckets. WELL DONE +THANK YOU ALL.xxxx

ops......

2010-04-30T20:23:00.001+01:00

well a minor set back in having my apendix removed on me birthday!!!! can't work or drive for 2 weeks and run for great distance for up to 6 weeks!!!! but still got about a further 10 after that, got to stay positive!! its going to be a challenge and a half now people..........

Fundraising Gig!!

2010-04-17T16:15:00.002+01:00

OK Folks, the first one is HERE!

Sunday May 2nd at the Garden House.
5pm Tara - 8pm DYFA

PLUS a BBQ!

There will also be a mini-bootsale at 11.am
come and have a rummage or set up a table of your own. Proceeds divided between the run and the charities.

Tickets £2 minimum donation

proceeds to the run and the three charities.

Come Early - Stay Late.

Let's raise LOTS of money for this great cause.

Diss Express writes for Matty

2010-04-17T16:07:00.000+01:00

check out the following website to read Matty's write up:

http://www.dissexpress.co.uk/news/Builder-to-run-length-of.6230383.jp

T-Shirts

2010-04-15T10:59:00.001+01:00

Hi all, as Matty has said, T-shirts are on their way! We'd like to have some idea of how many to order, we'd hate to say we didn't have enough to go round....so please.......let us know if you would like to be the owner of a bespoke shirt by emailing Matt on mattysbigrun@hotmail.co.uk . T-shirts will be a very practical navy blue with a white design and selling for £15. All proceeds to the run and the charities.

Thanks Everyone for your supoort. xx (Jackie, support driver and general goffer)

Update............

2010-04-11T10:09:00.002+01:00

Hey everyone......its all coming together now, we are sorting out gigs and other fundraising ideas. T-shirts are being made and people are all helping which i thank you loads!! So many of you are wanting to run for a bit with me which is fantastic!! The map is being made up so when done will let you all know the route. Gym and running and swiming is taking over my life but its all good. The problem of accommodation is next to tackle...I thank you all for helping and getting involved, please keep giving and spreading the word.

Thanks........

2010-03-25T22:39:00.003Z

Hey we have gone globle now and the support has been great thank you all very much. Just trying to get everyone to become a follower and donate as much as you can. There will be sponsor forms and buckets appearing in many pubs and offices in the next couple of weeks. If there are any ideas you have then please email me and we can all rally together to raise as much as we can!!!

Diss Mercury writes for Matty

2010-03-25T18:08:00.003Z

Matt's 873-mile run for best friend.

25 March 2010

A keen marathon runner is preparing to take on his biggest challenge by running the length of Great Britain for his best friend, who was seriously injured in a motorcycle crash.

Self-employed builder Matt Harrison from Attleborough is planning to run from John o' Groats to Lands End in the summer to raise funds for three life-saving good causes.

The 29 year old's 873 mile challenge come after his friend, Chris Taaffe, was left in a coma for several weeks following a motorcycle crash in south Norfolk on October 1.

It was thanks to the rapid response of the East Anglian Air Ambulance and the Addenbrooke's Critical Care Unit in Cambridge that saved the biker's life.

Mr Taaffe, 29, from Kenninghall, is now out of critical care and has begun to eat and speak under the treatment of the Colman Centre for Specialist Rehabilitation Services in Norwich.

Mr Harrison is now hoping to raise thousands of pounds for the three organisations by spending a month running 30 miles a day between John o' Groats and Lands End.

The former Banham Zoo Keeper, who has completed two London Marathons and run the length of Hadrian's Wall from Newcastle to Carlisle last year, hopes to start his lateast adventure in August. He added that the run would be "long, tough and emotional".

"Chris is progressing well and the money I raise will not make any difference to Chris, but will help people in the furture. You never know when you'll need the air ambulance".

"I love a challenge. I have spent a lot of time organising, but the training started two weeks ago. The hardest part is working 12 hours a day and finding the strength and time to go running," he said.

Mr Harrison can be sponsored at http://www.mattysbigrun.blogspot.com/

ouch!!!!.........

2010-03-07T17:50:00.003Z

My first run today for 5 months......i managed 15 miles in 3 hrs and think i am going to ache tomorrow!!

From the begining.......

2010-03-06T11:00:00.002Z

Well hello everyone....looks like i have gone mental again and set myself another mad challenge!! But for anyone who knows 'taffy' its for a very good reason indeed. Just to let you know from my eyes whats going on at the moment, me and my team are having weekly meetings to start the organisation of such a massive event. The second meeting was last Wednesday and so far have been very positive. The whole issue of grants, sponsorships, accommodation etc...... is a mad headache but hopefully we will get there in the end. Training is the big one for me, i am working as normal so limited to when i can going running. Weekends are the golden opportunity so if you see me around the county then honk ya horn!! The main question is 'do you think i can do it'?.........