NEVER in my time representing Central Devon have I witnessed a feat of endurance quite like that of my constituent Steve James from Okehampton.

Our community is no stranger to determined individuals, whether it’s farmers resiliently working the land or volunteers supporting neighbours in need.

Yet Steve’s journey stands in a league of its own and deserves to be celebrated across every village and town in our part of Devon.

Back in April, Steve took his first steps on what would become a truly epic challenge. His aim was simple but ambitious: to run 200 marathons in 200 consecutive days, hugging the winding coastline of mainland Britain.

Over the weeks that followed, he navigated some of the wildest, most unpredictable stretches of our coast.

He faced rain, wind, and the unpredictable British summer, braving it day after day without so much as a breather, covering well over 5,000 miles.

What set Steve’s journey apart was not just the monumental distance or the extreme physical demands. It was his motivation.

Steve set out to raise vital funds for Cancer Research UK, a cause close to many of our hearts. Cancer touches nearly every household in the country.

In the UK, one in two people born after 1960 will be diagnosed with some form of cancer during their lifetime.

While survival rates have improved dramatically over the past decades thanks to improved research and treatments, tens of thousands of families face the bitter reality of a cancer diagnosis every year.

The need for ongoing support could not be more important.

In addition, Steve championed the Exeter and Devon Scouts, an organisation that means a great deal to families across the patch.

He has shown the next generation what it means to put others first, to show real determination, and to invest time and energy for the greater good.

With every step, Steve wasn’t just running for himself. He was running for all those touched by cancer and for the next generation of Scouts, instilling hope, perseverance and camaraderie.

I was delighted to see how many people cheered him on as news of his run spread quickly throughout Devon and beyond.

Supporters lined the roads and coastal paths, sharing encouragement, handing out cups of tea, and even joining him for the odd mile.

Children waved banners and locals tracked his progress online.

The sense of community spirit was inspiring and a testament to how an individual’s passion can unite and uplift everyone.

Steve represents the very best of us: selfless, determined, unwavering in the face of adversity, and thinking of others.

His example is a reminder that extraordinary things can be achieved when purpose meets sheer grit.

It’s a story I’m proud to share, and I hope it encourages us all to back our local heroes and consider what we might contribute to the greater good.

Let’s all take inspiration from Steve’s achievements and continue to look out for each other within our local communities.

Mel Stride

MP for Central Devon