Lesley’s 50-day 5k challenge in memory of her late mum

Bank manager Lesley McChrystal (49) took on the 5X50 Challenge - running 5k every day for 50 days to collect more than £2,000 for the Marie Curie Hospice.

Her mum, Margaret McGhie, a retired nursing sister at Stobhill Hospital, passed away in May 2011.

Every year, around the anniversary of her death, Lesley raises money to say thank you to the hospice staff who cared for her in her final days.

Lesley, who is manager at the Kirkintilloch branch of Barclays, said: “This year, I decided to do something defferent and registered for the 5X50 Challenge. I had to complete at least 5k every day for 50 days by either running, walking, or by cross trainer.

“This was a fantastic challenge and by signing up for it, I really had to focus.

“It was very motivating and I felt great after each run. I completed the challenge the week before my mum’s anniversary.”

She added: “I would just to thank all my family and friends for their support and kind donations.”

Lesley stayed local to complete the 5ks, running a range of different routes, taking in Lenzie, Moodiesburn and Gartcosh.

She said: “The care and attention my mum got at the hospice was amazing. Staff were always there for mum and the rest of the family.

“We can’t thank them enough for all the care and attention they gave us at that time of need.”

Lesley’s dad Henry is her biggest supporter, donating £1,000 to her challenge and a further £1,000 was donated by the Barclays group

The 5×50 Challenge was launched in 2012 by a group of volunteers as a charity challenge encouraging people to run, walk, jog or cycle 5K every day for 50 days as a way to get fit and stay healthy.

To find out more and to register to take part next, visit www.5x50.org/