A world record-holding runner and animal sanctuary owner has successfully completed an ambitious challenge to run 500 miles in just 25 days.

Fiona Oakes, 54, runs the Tower Hill Stables Animal Sanctuary in Bradwell on Sea with partner Martin Morgan.

Fiona took on a mammoth challenge to run 500 miles between the first of December and Christmas Day with all the money raised going to the sanctuary.

The runner went one better and did 502.5 miles in total, calling her Christmas Day run a “victory lap”.

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Winner: Fiona Oakes with her Charity Champion award at the Amplifon Awards in 2018Winner: Fiona Oakes with her Charity Champion award at the Amplifon Awards in 2018 (Image: Amplifon Awards)

Her aim was to raise people’s spirits and bring “a little bit of laughter as well as promoting good health and being out in nature and all the joys that can bring”.

She completed many of her 20-mile-a-day runs whilst wearing Christmas-themed costumes, including an elf outfit along the sea wall at Bradwell.

As a result of the challenge, she has now raised more than £10,000 for the sanctuary.

Fiona said: “No matter what time of day, or night, whatever the weather, just being injury and illness-free and able to even consider doing something as demanding as this was such a blessing to me.

“Moving forward into the New Year when people often feel uncertain and insecure about what is to come they often overlook the blessings they have at present and in everyday life - such as family, friendships and, hopefully, good health.

“These are the most precious gifts which are often taken for granted until they cease to exist.

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Support: Jenna, left, with Tower Hill's Fiona Oakes and Carol Koehl-Ritson from Animal Resuce Supporters, at Tower Hill Stables Animal Sanctuary in 2019Support: Jenna, left, with Tower Hill's Fiona Oakes and Carol Koehl-Ritson from Animal Resuce Supporters, at Tower Hill Stables Animal Sanctuary in 2019 (Image: Fiona Oakes)

“So the run was truly about caring and sharing and really meaning it.

“Everyone stresses about Christmas presents and material things, but often the most precious gift can be a simple gesture or a kind and supportive word and really meaning it.

“Not just hearing but really listening and empathising can mean so much - especially in these times of such severe mental health crisis.

“And so, although tired, I am back out running after my efforts and enjoying the indulgence of spending time in nature - rain, wind, cold and whatever the winter weather decided to throw my way I embrace with a smile because that is the best tonic of all.”