A journey that began during lockdown has led to a North Yorkshire town councillor's international selection for an upcoming running championship.
Endurance runner and Norton-on-Derwent town councillor Joshua Vale has been chosen to represent England at the Four Nations Backyard Ultra Championship.
His achievement comes after he took up running during the Covid-19 lockdown to improve his health, but it soon developed into a passion for ultra-distance racing.
Mr Vale said: "Representing England at the Four Nations is a dream come true. I took up running as I put on a lot of weight over lockdown, and the goal then was simply to shift the excess weight.
"Since then, running has taken me on a journey I never dreamed of, and if I can do it then anyone can do it."
The Four Nations Backyard Ultra is one of the most gruelling formats in endurance sport, bringing together top runners from England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Athletes must complete a 4.167-mile loop every hour on the hour until only one competitor remains.
Mr Vale's selection reflects both his personal resilience and the inclusive nature of the sport.
Rebecca McWass, team captain of the England Backyard Ultra squad, said: "In particular, to have Joshua coming from a background where he started running purely for health and wellbeing and going on to reach this level is something really special.
"It shows what can be achieved when commitment and belief come together, regardless of where you start from."
Despite competing at a national level, most of the athletes are self-funded and must cover travel, accommodation, and event fees.
To help, the team has launched a Crowdfunder campaign to raise funds for the championship.
Supporters can donate at crowdfunder.co.uk/p/get-team-england-to-the-4-nations-backyard-ultra-c
For sponsorship enquiries, contact Rebecca McWass at: rebecca@invis-ablefitness.com
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