Ramadan runner raises cash for Luton Foodbank while fasting

Bilal Hussain said his "body feels broken" but community support motivated him

A man has been running 5km (3.1miles) every day while fasting during Ramadan to raise money for a food bank.

Bilal Hussain, 41, a trustee at Luton Foodbank, said the service was facing "difficult months" and wanted to help.

He has raised over £11,000 for the charity service via a fundraising website.

Mr Hussain said the cost-of-living crisis had increased the number of people, including emergency service workers, using the food bank.

"It broke my heart to see the people that protect us on food parcels, and this is not just in Luton but all over the country," said Mr Hussain.

"We want to get as much money as possible so people are not going hungry."

Members of the community have joined Mr Hussain on his 5km runs while fasting

A meeting at the food bank, about a month before Ramadan, discussed the difficult few months it faced.

Mr Hussain, who lives in Luton, said he quickly came up with an idea to help.

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During the month of Ramadan, Muslims abstain from eating and drinking before dawn through to sunset.

Mr Hussain though a running challenge during the holy month would make for a challenging fundraiser.

He typically runs about an hour before he breaks the fast.

"I am absolutely shattered; fasting is draining anyway," he told the BBC.

"My body feels broken but I will get over it and I have so much support, that is what motivates me.

"The community spirit is fantastic and I have had people join me on the runs, which shows how much love and support there is."

Mr Hussain said the combination of running and fasting left him "absolutely shattered"

Mr Hussain will complete his challenge at the end of Ramadan, which is expected to fall on Tuesday or Wednesday.

The dates of the Islamic holy month vary each year depending on when on the crescent moon is sighted.