UK runner close to Australia coast-to-coast record

Jack Pitcher said highlights had included "amazing" wildlife and the kindness of strangers

A UK man is close to setting a British record for running 2,684 miles (4,320km) across Australia.

Jack Pitcher, 28, from Bracknell, Berkshire, set off from Perth on 6 October, along with 21-year-old Joshua Smith from Reading.

Mr Pitcher said it was down to him to "carry the torch" after an injury forced his friend to stop running and complete the remaining miles on a bicycle.

The pair are on course to reach Sydney's Bondi Beach on Wednesday in a time of 60 days.

Nikki Love, 56, from Nottingham is the current British record holder

The previous British record of 77 days was set in 2023 by 56-year-old Nikki Love from Nottingham.

In 2022, Australian ultra-marathon runner Nedd Brockmann managed the feat in just 46 days and 12 hours.

Mr Pitcher, who has previously suffered with depression, said he hoped the run would inspire others who are struggling with mental health issues.

He said: "The last sort of few days for me, it's been absolute torture. I'm going to bed at about 10.30 and I'm up at 04.30 having breakfast.

"I'm stretching, I'm getting ready. I can barely move and then I've got to try and find the strength to run for 16 hours."

Mr Pitcher hopes to complete the 2,684 miles (4,320km) in 60 days

The runner said highlights of the journey included the natural environment and the kindness of strangers.

He said: "The wildlife has been amazing. I've seen emus, kangaroos, wombats.

"A lot of Australian drivers actually stop and give you cold drinks.

"I've been very shocked at some of the storms out here at night, the heaviest rain I've ever seen, the most aggressive lightning."

Mr Pitcher and Mr Smith are raising money for SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, and ARC Wokingham, a volunteer-run counselling service.