Man inspired by MND community to tackle seven marathons in seven days

A 51-year-old man from Wigan is preparing to run seven marathons, across seven counties, in just seven days after being inspired by the Motor Neurone Disease (MND) community.

Martyn Clarke, who has no direct connection to MND, decided to take on the challenge after hearing the story of former rugby league star Rob Burrow, who was diagnosed with the disease in 2019.

Over the years, Martyn has completed a series of gruelling endurance events — from a seven-man iron challenge to a triathlon across Europe — raising tens of thousands of pounds for MND charities.

Throughout his fundraising journey, Martyn has built close friendships with people affected by MND, motivating him to continue his efforts. His latest challenge, the 'MND 777', will see him run seven marathons in seven different UK counties over seven consecutive days.

Martyn said:

“This is going to be my last challenge of this physical calibre. I’m not getting any younger and I know I’ll be physically and mentally drained at the end of it.

“The training itself has been incredibly tough, but knowing the difference I’m making for people affected by this cruel disease has kept me going.

“Once I hang up my running shoes, it will be the end of challenges on this scale, but I will always be an ambassador for the MND community and continue to raise awareness and funds.”

Martyn has mapped his route around significant locations where he has met people living with or affected by MND.

He will set off from Somerset on Monday 5 May, passing through Portishead, Birmingham, Merseyside, Greater Manchester, Lancashire, and Tyne and Wear, before finishing at the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon on Sunday 11 May.

Through his latest fundraising effort, Martyn hopes to raise £7,777 for four charities: the Motor Neurone Disease Association, The Mel Evans MBE Foundation, The Darby Rimmer MND Foundation, and Leeds Hospitals Charity’s Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease Appeal.