Jo Parker completes ultramarathon in support of nephew, 4

Jo Parker laced up her trainers alongside Rachel Piper and Gareth Birkett from Banbury in Oxfordshire.

The trio raised £4,125 for Helen & Douglas House, which cares for Gareth's son William, 4.

The Last One Standing Ultramarathon in Northern Ireland saw them set off at noon on February 15 and complete a 4.2-mile trail loop every hour.

The event is complete when the last competitor completes a solo loop, meaning it can – and does – go on for days.

Each competitor had their own goal and Jo’s was to complete a minimum of 12 loops totalling 50 miles, which she achieved. Gareth and Rachel each completed their goal of 100 miles in 24 hours.

Rachel Piper and Jo Parker

Jo said: "This is by far my biggest challenge to date. The weather was horrendous with Storm Dennis which made the ground conditions particularly difficult but we all had a fantastic weekend.

"I was ecstatic with my 50 miles, particularly with the conditions being so bad.

"We couldn't have done it without the support of my husband Phil, who had everything ready and waiting for us at the end of each loop.

"For those of you who know me will know that I love a little challenge from time to time however, my real why is to raise money for the fabulous Helen & Douglas House who provide respite care for my beautiful nephew William who has a life-shortening condition.

"I'd like to thank everyone who donated."

Jo's employers Elanco in Liverpool donated £1,500 through their workplace giving scheme.

Gareth added: "We all raised money for Helen & Douglas House as their service provides the only real break from the 24-hour care my son William needs. It is a real salvation for both William and our whole family."

William's rare condition results in drug-resistant epilepsy and global developmental delay.

The hospice must raise £3.6m a year to help terminally ill children

See uk.virginmoneygiving.com/JoanneParker18