A MAN will take on one of the UK's toughest endurance races to raise money and awareness for Motor Neurone Disease after being inspired by a friend who is living with the disease.

Mike Gregory is taking part in the 2024 Montane Winter Spine Race to support his friend Alan Towart.

Mr Towart, from Newby Bridge, was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) in 2017, with the condition affecting the brain and the nervous system. 

"Ever since Alan was diagnosed, I have been completely inspired by Alan and his family mindset," said Mike.

"They're true heroes and show amazing grit with such a positive attitude when faced with this evil disease". 

Mike, from Grange, has so far raised more than £1,300 for the Motor Neurone Disease Association and St Mary's Hospice which have supported Alan and his family.

He said: "I'm hoping to raise awareness of the condition because everyone has heard of it but doesn't have a big understanding of the impact it actually has on people.

"When you get diagnosed with MND, you are given a death sentence, but there is no timeline. The symptoms of the condition are all very individual which makes it a very cruel disease indeed."

The Mail: Mike Gregory going on long hikes to prepare for the challenge.Mike Gregory going on long hikes to prepare for the challenge. (Image: Submitted)

The challenge is starting at 8am on January 15 and Mike has seven days to complete it.

The starting point is in Edale (Peak District) and finishes at Kirk Yetholm (Scotland). Competitors have to carry their equipment to survive UK winter conditions both day and night along the 268-mile route.

Competitors climb over 10,000 meters as the route crosses some of the most beautiful but difficult terrain found in England, including the Peak District, Yorkshire Dales, Northumberland National Park, Hadrian’s Wall and the Cheviots.

He said: "I train before going to work and when I finish work and at the weekends. Some days, I have been away from 4.30 in the morning and do not get home until 11 o'clock at night.

"You can't go into these events without putting the hours on the lead-up to it because if you don't train, you won't finish."

MND Association Regional Fundraiser Dominic McDonough said@ “This challenge will be the toughest of the tough and we really appreciate all of the hard work and preparation that Michael has done. Every penny that he raises will make a huge difference and help us to support those living with MND in our community. It means so much to us and I’m sure he will do brilliantly.”

To help Mike raise funds for the two charities, please visit the fundraising page here.