An energetic Bromley man completed a gruelling 100km run around Norman Park on Thursday, which took more than 12 hours.

John Diamante ran more than 50 laps around the park, starting at 6.30am and finishing at 6.55pm – a total of 12 hours and 25 minutes of running.

So far he has raised more than £2,500 for his chosen charity, ISWAN, which helps provide support for people working at sea.

He set out to raise the money after thousands of seafarers in the Philippines were laid off or unable to join their vessels because of the coronavirus pandemic, with extended families facing severe financial hardship.

Speaking after the run, former seafarer John told News Shopper: “I am hugely grateful to all who supported me in my 100KM social distancing run at Norman Park.

News Shopper:

Picture by Kev Howarth

“It was a huge undertaking that needed the support of friends who indeed came over to provide the much-needed help.

“It was both a mental and physical challenge which was made doable because of friends. I am thankful to the following clubs for their invaluable support, from my running club Bromley Veterans AC, and Petts Wood runners, Zero to Hero Runners, Orpington road runners, Beckenham running club , Bromley Parkrun runners , Bromley Junior Parkrun, 100 Marathon club, and Pinoy Runners London.

“To all who donated to our cause, please accept our gratitude. Your help will go a long way to support Filipino seafarers displaced by COVID-19 in the Philippines”.

He also thanked his friends and supporters, including Nigel Bulmer who had joined him for the entire day.

Despite more than doubling the initial target of £1,000 John’s fundraising page is still live and can be found at: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/john-diamante