Date Published: 28 September 2006

Cancer survivor Findlay Young in home straight of Great World Run

Courageous cancer survivor Findlay Young will arrive in the UK on Saturday 30th September to complete the final leg in his quest to run 24 half marathons in 24 consecutive days.

Findlay's 'Great World Run' has taken him on a whistle-stop tour of 24 different locations in 12 countries on six continents ? all to raise money for Cancer Research UK.

The young Scot, 32, who has battled thyroid cancer twice in less than two years, will complete his challenge by taking part in the world's biggest half marathon, the BUPA Great North Run, on Sunday 1st October.

Findlay has so far raised over £25,000 for Cancer Research UK and the money is still pouring in. He has received messages of support from celebrities including Olympic gold medallist Lord Sebastian Coe, explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes, Little Britain star and Channel swimmer David Walliams, Cancer Research UK's running ambassador Nell McAndrew and long distance running champion Haile Gebre Selassie.

Findlay, who lives in London, said:

“Over the last 23 days I've experienced some of the greatest highs of my life. I've had the awesome experience of running around Ayers Rock and the beautiful bays in Auckland, New Zealand. I've run alongside the carnival in Rio, past reindeers in Alaska and through New York on 9/11.

_ And no matter how much the jet lag, sunstroke, sickness, ulcers and blisters have hurt they've been eclipsed by the overwhelming help and support I've received from everyone.

_ I've carried a mental picture of the Tyne Bridge in my mind to help me focus on my last run on Sunday. I know the feelings of joy and relief will be overwhelming when I see my family and friends waiting for me at the finish line.?

Professor Alex Markham, chief executive of Cancer Research UK, says:

“Findlay's courage and commitment to supporting Cancer Research UK's life saving work is inspirational. We're very grateful for the time and energy he is devoting to raising money for research.?

Cancer Research UK is asking people to join the charity at the BUPA Great North Run to welcome Findlay home and support all the runners raising money for its vital research to beat cancer. For those who are not able to make it to Newcastle, Findlay's homecoming will be shown during the BBC coverage of the run on Sunday.

It is not too late to make a donation and support Findlay please visit www.justgiving.com/greatworldrun or www.greatworldrun.com.

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