A MAN aiming to break a running world record was given a birthday surprise in Durham.

Prince Bishops Shopping Centre, which today confirmed it is to be the title sponsor of the first-ever Durham City Run, welcomed Ben Smith in the midst of a challenge to be the first person to run 401 marathons in 401 days.

Mr Smith is raising awareness of the issues of bullying in society and money for two charities - Stonewall and Kidscape.

He celebrated his 34th birthday today (Mon, May 16) with a marathon in Durham and his route took him to Prince Bishops Shopping Centre, where he was presented with a cake and a cheque.

Ben Smith’s 259th marathon followed a course in and around Durham, including sections that will feature in the inaugural Durham City Run.

This brand-new event is being presented by Durham County Council in partnership with Events of the North and will see both 5K and 10K races taking place on the evening of Wednesday July 20.

Mr Smith’s birthday route was set by the Durham City Harriers and saw him visit local schools to talk about his record-breaking endeavour.

He was accompanied on the day by several Harriers, along with members of local running group Durham Mums on the Run and Aly Dixon, who will be representing Great Britain in the marathon at the Rio Olympic Games this summer.

After running through Prince Bishops, Smith blew out the candles on a birthday cake baked by one of the centre’s tenants, Sweet Tooth Delivery.

Prince Bishops and Durham City Run organiser Events of the North also handed over a cheque for £401 to help Mr Smith on his way to his fundraising target.

Mr Smith said: “Running in Durham feels like being back at home again. I have a lot of roots in the North-East.

“The support up here has been electric, I’ve got five running clubs from across the county join me today which has made my birthday even more special.”

Prince Bishops Shopping Centre manager Richard Toynbee said: “Prince Bishops Shopping Centre is the premier retail destination in the heart of Durham City and becoming title sponsor of the first- ever Durham City Run was a no-brainer."

To find out more about Ben Smith and the 401 Challenge and make a donation visit www.the401challenge.co.uk.

Places on the Durham City Run events are available at www.durhamcityrun.com.