A GLOBAL adventurer, marathon runner and best-selling author Rosie Swale Pope is heading to Darlington to talk about her experiences.

The Pembrokeshire grandmother hit the headlines when she became the only person in history, man or woman, to have undertaken a solo, unsupported run around the world – more than 20,000 miles – in a bid to raise awareness of prostate cancer following the death of her husband.

Her international best-selling book ‘Just a little run around the world’ provided a gripping account of her adventures.

But ever-determined she did not stop there, other adventures followed including: running 27 marathons in 27 days; a record-breaking solo transatlantic voyage in a 17ft boat; a speed trek to Everest Base Camp with a young Nepali team from the Nepal Trust; and twice completing the Marathon des Sables.

Earlier this year she completed a 3,371 mile solo trek across America, from New York to San Francisco and now gives motivational speeches, all based on her own personal experiences.

Mrs Pope, who was brought up by her grandmother in Ireland, said: “I learned that there is absolutely nothing special about me and that you don’t have to be stopped by the things you can’t do. Don’t give up. It is easier to be the best that you can be than to give up.”

‘An afternoon with Rosie Swale-Pope’ will be at Darlington’s Crown Street Library on Tuesday, September 26, from 2pm. Tickets cost £5, payable on booking. Refreshments will be provided.

For more information or to book your place at the event call into Darlington Library or call 01325-462034.