The Montane Spine Race is a 268 mile ultramarathon along the Pennine Way National Trail, with the event starting at Edale in Derbyshire and finishing at Kirk Yetholm in the Scottish Borders. Competitors had seven days to complete the race and were able to sleep at various checkpoints along the route.

In total, the feat took 129 hours to complete and provided Matt the opportunity to meet new people, experience stunning rises and sunsets, whilst also battling the freezing temperatures at night with the runners, at one point, experiencing a wind chill of minus 20 degrees requiring them to wear goggles.

Determined for the challenge, Matt initially set a target of raising £500 but thanks to donations from colleagues and friends he was able to raise over £1500 for TASC, which is the leading UK charity supporting current and retired ambulance staff and their families during times of need.

Commenting on the race Matt said: “Overall, I feel privileged to have been able to complete this event, as many people are not as fortunate and are not afforded the same opportunity.  I have a great sense of achievement, have made new friends and have created memories that will last a lifetime.

“I am so grateful to have received many messages of support through the event live tracking, as these were printed and given to me upon completion.  It has also been great to have so many NWAS colleagues who are keen to hear about the experience.”

Well done to Matt who will now turn his focus to the Lakeland 100 in July, a long distance trail race which encompasses the whole of the Lakeland fells, and will begin his training in the coming weeks.