FOOTBALL fan Paul Smith completed 3,000 days of running by covering 30 miles running around a football pitch centre circle.

The Hartlepool supporter, 52, from Sherburn Hill, County Durham, has run every single day since January 1, 2007.

Today (Thursday, March 19) he finished on the pitch at Ebac Northern League side Consett’s ground to raise money for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and The Bobby Moore Fund for Cancer Research UK.

He ran for five hours, six minutes, at the Belle Vue Stadium and completed 848 laps dressed as England World Cup legend Bobby Moore.

Mr Smith said: “This was my personal tribute to two great football Bobbys and a chance to do something to help their cancer charities too.

“It was hard and I just had to get my head down and get on with it. The last three miles were especially difficult and I slowed down a bit then.

“I’m just so pleased to have successfully done it. I’d love to raise £1,966 for the charities, that’s my aim, and I’m so happy to get the run under my belt. It’s been a great day.”

Liz Luff, of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, said: “I ran about a mile on the pitch with Paul and that was more than enough for me.

“It’s really difficult just to run in circles like that. I take my hat off to him for finishing all 30 miles.

“We’re very grateful to Paul and to everyone who has supported his efforts. It’s a great achievement.”

Mark Bell, Consett’s facilities manager, said the club was happy to allow use of its ground and that it congratulated Mr Smith on his achievement.