Islander to run 50 miles for charity anniversary

Alex Black says the last 50-years of Les Amis has been 'a journey far more turbulent than the terrain on the 50-mile course'

An islander is set to run 50 miles (80 km) to honour half a century of work by a special needs charity.

Les Amis, which supports people with learning disabilities, celebrated its 50th anniversary in July.

Alex Black said his Miles 4 Smiles challenge would begin with the Jersey Marathon on 5 October, continuing past the finish line to pass all Les Amis' residential homes and finishing at FB Fields.

The facilities manager said other staff members and service users would be joining him during the 50-mile stretch.

He said: "I see the difference we make every day, and now, I want to do more, that's why I'm running 50 miles, to push my limits.

"Les Amis isn't just a charity, it's a family - it's about giving people the chance to live with independence, with purpose and with joy."

Mr Black said the last 50 years of Les Amis had been "a journey far more turbulent than the terrain on the 50-mile course".

He said: "The success is owed to its community who have invested so much effort into developing true meaning behind inclusion and empowerment values.

"Completing the 50 miles is by comparison a very small gesture, but hopefully one that inspires and helps raise funds so that Les Amis can continue supporting beyond another 50 years."