A former Penryn College pupil has put his best foot forward to complete an epic run from Dorset to Mawnan Smith in aid of Dementia UK.

Martyn Houldsworth jogged into the village after completing the equivalent of a marathon a day for seven days by running from his Ferndown home to the village, where his parents Eithna and John live.

His epic 'Bound4home' challenge began on August 29, and crossing the finishing line just before noon, Martyn was greeted by a large crowd of well-wishers who had gathered to welcome him.

A group of supporters even set up an impromptu refreshments stall, while another group jogged the last part of the route into the village with him.

The run has helped raise over £3,425 for Dementia UK which provides Admiral nurses specialising in dementia care.

Martyn, who is married to Amy, said he started training in February and was “very much up for the challenge” despite never having previously run long distances.

He added: “A close family member suffered from dementia a few years back and I remember how it changes people. I don’t know where the idea of the run came from. It was just a thought and, before I knew it, I had organised it with a lot of help.”

Hilda Hayo, chief Admiral Nurse and chief executive officer, said: “I would like to thank Martyn for taking on such a phenomenal challenge in support of Dementia UK.

"Everyday our Admiral Nurses support families who are finding it difficult to cope, need our advice and are struggling to come to terms with a loved one who has dementia.

“Thanks to exceptional efforts from people like Martyn, we are able to continue to support people who need our help the most.”