Amy Hughes 'ultra runner' set to complete 53rd marathon in as many days

Sports therapist stands to break the world record - both men and women - once over the finish line

It is believed Mike Freeman was given the all-clear by a doctor before taking part

She’s known as an “ultra runner” and with good reason – today Amy Hughes is set to complete her 53rd marathon in as many days.

It’s an incredible feat that will see the 26-year-old set a new world record when she crosses the finish line in Manchester.

Writing on her Facebook page this morning, Amy said “today is going [to be] a crazy one”.

Once over she will have smashed the current women’s record of 17 consecutive marathons, set by American Parvaneh Moayedi, and eased ahead of the men’s record of 52.

The number 53 is significant in other ways for the sports therapist from West Felton, Shropshire, however. She hopes to raise £53,000 for brain tumour charity the Isabelle Lottie Foundation.

Speaking to the BBC before setting off, she said: “The charity is close to my heart, because a friend's daughter was diagnosed with a brain tumour and this charity helps support families like hers.”

The runner has so far managed to avoid injury, though she has reportedly gone through five pairs of trainers.

Her efforts have grabbed media headlines as well as support from famous faces including England and Manchester United football star Wayne Rooney, who tweeted his admiration yesterday.

He wrote: “@53marathons completes her final stage tomorrow great achievement raising awareness for the isabelle lottie foundation [sic].”

Speaking to the Shropshire Star, Amy’s mum Julie Jones, said: “I'm extremely proud. I can't believe that she's nearly completed it.

”I didn't speak to her for a week after she told me what she was planning because I thought she was completely mental.

“When she got to five and said she was okay, that's when I thought she could do it.”

Click here to visit Amy’s sponsor page, find her on Facebook here and follow her on twitter at @53marathons.