A FOOTBALL coach who dribbled his way through deserts, mountains and thunderstorms on an epic 2,000-mile journey has been crowned winner of the Pride of Britain Awards' regional Fundraiser of the Year.
James Lewis will now be in the running for the national title at a ceremony in London on 8th October.
He earned the regional crown by travelling from Morocco to the Midlands across 86 days in memory of his father, who was cared for by St Giles Hospice in the last weeks of his life.
It is the latest challenge James has undertaken in aid of the Whittington charity, having previously run from Paris and conquered the Three Peaks Challenge.
In total, he has raised more than £129,000 for St Giles Hospice.
James said:
"I didn't do it for a trophy, and there are so many worthy winners in this region alone. Seeing their stories has been incredible.
"I did it for kids and young people who are facing loss, so they know they're not alone in it.
"St Giles gave my dad incredible care in his final weeks, and that's something I'll never forget.
"I want to thank everyone who's supported me throughout this amazing summer, the supporters, everyone who donated, the people who stopped along the way to give me food or water, and of course local supporters who have been incredible."
Elinor Eustace, chief executive of St Giles Hospice, said the whole team was thrilled to see James recognised.
She said:
"James has given so much to this hospice over the years through his fundraising, and his complete dedication to making sure other families get the same support his family had.
"This award belongs to him, and we could not be prouder to see him carry the West Midlands flag to London."
People can still support James' fundraising efforts at www.justgiving.com/page/jameslewis26.
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