Steve Radjen raises vital cash for Naomi House & Jacksplace

Steve Radjen, 60, is celebrating the success of a Bridgeton-themed ball held to help Naomi House & Jacksplace, which support children and young adults suffering from life-limiting illnesses.

In August last year he began to run a total of 1,572 miles in aid of the two hospices at Sutton Scotney, near Winchester.

But he was forced to change his plans after completing a marathon a day began to take its toll on his health.

Marathon man Steve Radjen has raised almost £200,000 for two Hampshire hospices (Image: Steve Radjen)

Steve, of Brockenhurst, decided to take a break and explore other ways of raising funds.

He and his wife Gerry hosted a ball at which Sophie Byrne, whose son Reuben used the hospices, shared her family’s story.

Steve said Sophie captured the hearts of everyone in the room, helping the event raise a "fantastic" amount.

He added: "I always have great expectations but in the current economic climate I just wasn’t sure what to expect. The generosity of all who have supported my challenge is phenomenal."

READ MORE: Steve Radjen, 60, aims to run 60 marathons in 60 days

Paul Morgan, director of fundraising and communications at Naomi House & Jacksplace, described Steve as a "true champion".

He added: "The ball was a tremendous success, in no small part due to the tremendous planning and coordination of Steve’s wife and the team around her.

"It was a night to remember. The generosity of all the guests was heart-warming."

Marathon man Steve Radjen has raised almost £200,000 for two Hampshire hospices (Image: Steve Radjen)

Steve has now resumed his bid to run 60 marathons and aims to complete his challenge by the end of this month.

Having done little or no sport since his early 20s he took up running in 2004 after deciding he needed to do something to get fit.

A few years later he celebrated his 50th birthday by entering what is often described as the toughest race on earth - the gruelling Marathon des Sables (MDS).

Contestants have to run 156 miles across the Sahara Desert in six days while carrying all their kit on their back.

READ MORE: Marathon man raises £140,000 by running 21 marathons in 21 days

Steve was hit by a stomach bug while taking part and was unable to eat for a day, but still managed to cover 54 miles in 21 hours.

Less than a week later he ran the London Marathon wearing his full MDS kit, including an 11kg backpack.

In 2021 he was presented with the British Empire Medal for services to charity.

Marathon man Steve Radjen has raised almost £200,000 for two Hampshire hospices (Image: Steve Radjen)