Newton Abbot mentor nears final hurdle in epic 50@50 Charity Challenge

The finish line is finally in sight for Newton Abbot resident Alex Lyons, who is nearing the end of an extraordinary year-long fundraising mission: running 50 half-marathons in 50 weeks to mark his 50th birthday and raise £10,000 for the local charity Life Chance Trust.

His 50th and final race will be the Torbay Half Marathon on Sunday, 21st September 2025, bringing to a close a gruelling test of endurance that has seen him clock up more than 650 miles – the equivalent of running from Newton Abbot to Paris.

“This challenge has been so much tougher than I ever imagined,” said Alex. “There were weeks when I could barely walk, let alone run—but I kept going because I know why I’m doing it. Every mile I’ve run has been for the young people whose lives we’re trying to change. Seeing their strength despite huge challenges has been my motivation to keep putting one foot in front of the other.”

Alex, who volunteers as both Treasurer and mentor for Life Chance Trust, has dedicated his 50@50 challenge to supporting vulnerable 16–25 year olds who have experienced childhood trauma. The charity helps young people rebuild their confidence, develop life skills, and move towards a safe, healthy and independent future.

“Working with Life Chance Trust has shown me that small acts of support can transform a life,” Alex explained. “But to keep that work going, we desperately need funds. I hope that this challenge not only raises money, but also raises awareness of the young people we’re here to help.”

Over the past 11 months, Alex has become a familiar sight in Newton Abbot and across South Devon in his orange Life Chance Trust T-shirt. From dawn training runs to late-night miles, through injuries and torrential rain, his determination has never wavered.

Supporters have rallied behind him - running alongside him, cheering at finish lines, and donating generously. Yet with just weeks left, he still has some way to go to reach his £10,000 target.

The money raised will directly fund mentoring and life skills support for 50 young people across Devon.

“Every pound raised goes towards giving these young people a chance,” said Hannah Moon from Life Chance Trust. “Alex has shown such commitment, and now we’re calling on the community to help him cross the finish line, not just of his running challenge, but of his fundraising goal. Together, we can change lives.”

Alex is now appealing for donations, encouragement, and for people to join him for his last run in Torbay.

“This has grown into something far bigger than just a birthday challenge,” he said. “It’s about showing young people that with resilience and support, you can overcome anything.”

Donations can be made via www.lifechancetrust.org.uk