A PHOTOGRAPHER has raised £6000 for charity after finishing 30 half marathons in 30 days.

Jon Turtle, of Wordsworth Avenue in Penarth completed his 30th half marathon on Thursday (March 2) in aid of Cancer Research UK.

Mr Turtle began his challenge following news that his own father had been diagnosed with cancer.

"I have lost three family members over the past ten years to cancer and just wanted to do something to help," he said.

"The more support we offer this charity the faster the professionals can beat this awful illness.”

He has run a different route each day and has now completed the 390 mile challenge..

Each run has commenced and finished at the Cancer Research UK shop on Stanwell Road in Penarth’s town centre, where a crowd of supporters and well-wishers were waiting to greet him on his final return.

Mr Turtle has been joined by various friends and fellow runners during the 30 day challenge who have either run, walked or cycled along in support.

A just-giving page has already raised over £5,500 for the charity and a collection has also raised £500 in donations from local supporters who have dropped them into the charity shop directly.

Shop manager Paul Phillips said: "It has been excellent to see additional activity raising funds and also awareness for the work of our shop in Penarth.

"We have seen increased visitors and people are really interested in Jon’s challenge when they come in to show support."

To donate, visit the shop in Penarth or www.justgiving.com and search for Jon Turtle 30 Half Marathons in 30 days Challenge or text JSST88 and the amount to 70070.