Miles in memory of Charlie

An Exmouth man has completed a gruelling 100Km (62 miles) run, the equivalent of 2.3 marathons, to raise funds for a local charity.

Charlie’s Beach School was founded in memory of Exmouth-schoolboy, Charlie Duignan, who sadly passed away in January 2024 from a brain tumour when he was just eight years old.

Olly Westray (44) started his challenge in Dartmouth just after 6am on 10th May and finished at Charlie’s Beach School at Sideshore, Exmouth Beach 14 hours later.

The challenge has seen him raise over £28,000 for the charity so far.

Charlie's family established the charity, Charlie's Beach School, in Exmouth to keep his memory alive. The beach school aims to help children, both local and visiting, by giving them access to the beach and seaside in a positive, fun and informative way.

The beach school’s vision is to get as many children interested in visiting the seaside as possible, particularly those children who have not been given that opportunity before.

Olly said: “That, by far, was the biggest challenge I have ever attempted, but the donations and well wishes from supporters have kept me going. It was an amazing experience, and I am delighted that we have raised over £28,000 to support Charlie’s Beach School.

“The atmosphere on the day was incredible, especially when I was joined for parts of the run by Charlie’s friends, including some of his teachers, school friends, members of his football and rugby team as well as members of the local running community. My twin brother even kept me company during part of it! It was a real team effort and their support on the day was invaluable.”

Charlie’s father, David Duignan joined Olly for the last 17km.

He said: “Charlie had a real love for sea life and the beach. One of his favourite activities was going to our local beach in Exmouth to play and help clean the beach – a free treasure hunt whilst protecting the beach, sea and its wildlife. His passion for nature and helping others inspired the creation of Charlie’s Beach School. In setting this up, Charlie’s legacy will benefit not only his friends and family but the wider community in Exmouth and beyond for generations to come.

“As a charity, our goal is to give thousands of children the chance to explore the beach, especially those who haven’t had the opportunity before. We run year-round sessions with beach cleans, rock pooling, beach art and wildlife discovery. We also offer free sessions for schools and community groups, along with weekly pre-school sessions.

"Each session carries forward Charlie’s love for nature, his joy in helping others, and his passion for the beach. We are so grateful to Olly for his amazing effort and to everyone who has donated. The money raised will go a long way in supporting Charlie’s Beach School.”

For more information or to donate visit: www.charliesbeachschool.co.uk/fundraising/olly-westray