A FOOTBALL fan who ran his longest run on the shortest day in the name of charity celebrated his epic 65-mile marathon by watching his beloved team from the dugout.

Paul Smith has raised more than £3,000 for the Finlay Cooper Fund and Sir Bobby Robson Foundation by running from St James’ Park, Newcastle, to Victoria Park, Hartlepool, via the Stadium of Light, Sunderland and the Riverside Stadium, Middlesbrough, on Saturday.

Despite waking up in agony this morning (Sunday, December 22) he was back pounding the streets near his home in Sherburn Hill, Durham, as he has done every day since January 1, 2007.

“I enjoyed the challenge every step of the way, to run as many days as I have shows how focused I am. Not finishing was not an option,” he said.

The endurance runner, who received tweets of support from fellow ‘Pools’ fan Sky Sports presenter, Jeff Stelling, did a lap of honour after finally arriving at Victoria Park.

He was welcomed by fans with a standing ovation before being invited to sit on the bench with the manager to watch the game against Burton Albion which resulted in a 1–1 draw.

“I did hope I would be asked to go on for the last five minutes,” admitted the 50-year-old who works in consumer protection at Durham County Council.

Hartlepool United manager, Colin Cooper, said Mr Smith’s achievement was “amazing”.

“I have to say he was chuffed that we chose to put him on the bench and he deserves it all," he added. "Paul’s achievement is amazing, he’s a smashing lad and what he has done is exceptional.”

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