Charity | Posted on March 18th, 2025 | return to news
Dorset pair raise over £80k from mammoth seven-day marathon challenge
Friends Chris Helberg and Chris Bryer-Ash attempted to run seven marathons in a week to raise funds for the Dorset Cancer Care Foundation.
Two men from Dorset attempted an immense challenge of running seven marathons in one week in March. The pair took on the herculean task to raise money for a local charity: Dorset Cancer Care Foundation (DCCF) – Dorset View’s charity of the year.
After seven days of pain, drama and immense shows of family unity, Chris Helberg crossed the finish line at Bournemouth Pier on Sunday 16 March, greeted by cheering well-wishers and the Mayor of Bournemouth, Cllr George Farquhar.
Helberg’s friend Chris Bryer-Ash had to pull out of the event on day three following a sudden hospital admission due to a viral infection. But his 59-year-old father, Rich, stepped forward to represent Chris for the rest of the challenge, despite not having any training.
Chris’s 94-year-old grandmother, Rosemary Bryer-Ash, also walked part of the marathon course for her grandson on day five.
Helberg said: “It has been an amazing week with so many ups and downs. I’m gutted my mate wasn’t able to complete it with me, but his dad Rich has stepped in and has done us all proud.
“Thanks so much to everyone who has supported us. You have been amazing. And if you haven’t already sponsored us, please do.”
Helberg and Bryer-Ash took on the challenge to raise money for DCCF, which provides financial assistance to Dorset residents and their families who are facing hardship because of a cancer diagnosis. It helps to pay for essentials such as accommodation and travels costs or households bills.
The runners set an initial fundraising target of £20k but have already topped £80k.
Chris Thomas, chairman of the DCCF said: “I have been very proud to run alongside Chris Helberg and then Chris Bryer-Ash’s dad Rich this week, and seen the terrific effort which has been put in by them, their supporters and families.
“It was an epic challenge which has raised a huge amount of money, which in turn will go to local families who really need it.
“Our thanks also go to all the DCCF supporters who have given their time to this challenge and cheered along the way. They are all our heroes.”
To donate, visit https://www.justgiving.com/page/super-seven-dccf.
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