Portishead fundraiser Ben Smith’s incredible 2016 has been crowned with an award at last night’s (Sunday’s) BBC Sports Personality of the Year ceremony.
Ben, aged 34, made local, national and international headlines back in October when he finished his 401 marathons in 401 days challenge.
He aimed to raise £250,000 for two anti-bullying charities Kidscape and Stonewall but he has managed to raise £315,000.
After being presented with the Helen Rollason Award, for achievement in the face of adversity, Ben said: “I want to say thank you to the tens of thousands of people who came out to watch and support this (challenge).
“My life was very very different four years ago, but I found running as my sanctuary and my way of expressing myself.
“I didn’t have any confidence or self-esteem and I was scared.
“Running gave me back my confidence, it gave me my self-esteem, but most importantly I’m not afraid any more, so thank you.”
Ben was given a standing ovation by a huge crowd at Birmingham’s Genting Arena, which included HRH The Duke of Cambridge and comedian Eddie Izzard who once ran 27 marathons in as many days.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here