FUNDRAISER Run Geordie Run has only 61 miles to go before completing his mammoth trek across Australia.

Mark Allison, 42, has clocked up more than 2,000 miles in searing heat and last week nearly abandoned the challenge over safety fears.

He is now hoping to finish by late Saturday, Australian time, at the earliest or lunchtime Sunday.

Mr Allison, who lives in Blyth, Northumberland, is running for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and the Children’s Foundation, and has raised more than £40,000.

A spokesman for the foundation said: “The good news is that he has a motel bed to sleep in tonight.

“The bad news is that temperatures are high again and his feet are causing problems – he still has a lot to do to safely complete this incredible challenge.

“He is currently considering 45 miles tomorrow (Saturday) and 16 miles on Sunday – or one massive push tomorrow.”

Signing off before he rested for the night, Mr Allison said: “Feet are battered. Swollen, bleeding, blistered and several internal pockets of fluid causing much pain.

“It’s not nice when the painkillers wear off. Only 61 more miles of pain to go thankfully.”

Mr Allison, who has a former wife and son in Shotley Bridge, County Durham, is expected to arrive back at Newcastle International Airport at 11.35am on Monday.

To support him log on to virginmoneygiving.com/rungeordierun.