Charity mentor nears end of epic fundraiser to help young people move on after childhood trauma
The end is in sight for Newton Abbot resident Alex Lyons, who’s closing in on the finale of a gruelling year-long challenge which has taken him right across Devon: running 50 half-marathons in 50 weeks to mark his 50th birthday and raise £10,000 for the local charity Life Chance Trust.
Alex’s 50th and final run will take place at the Torbay Half Marathon on Sunday, 21st September 2025, marking the end of an epic journey by the volunteer mentor to support vulnerable 16 - 25 year olds like ‘K’, now 18, whom Alex has mentored (story attached).
What started as a wild idea to celebrate his 50th has grown into something far bigger: a test of resilience, commitment, and tenacity. Alex has juggled full-time work, family life, injuries, and the unpredictable British weather—all while pounding the streets of Devon, week in and week out, in his now-familiar orange Life Chance Trust T-shirt.
“This challenge has been so much tougher than I ever imagined,” said Alex. “There were weeks when I could barely walk, let alone run—but I kept going because I know why I’m doing it. Every mile I’ve run has been for the young people whose lives we’re trying to change. Seeing their strength despite huge challenges has been my motivation to keep putting one foot in front of the other.”
Alex isn’t just raising money—he’s also deeply involved in Life Chance Trust. As both the charity’s Treasurer and a volunteer mentor, he sees firsthand how vital its work is. Life Chance Trust supports vulnerable 16–25 year olds who have experienced childhood trauma, helping them rebuild their confidence, develop life skills, and move towards a safe, healthy and independent future.
“Working with Life Chance Trust has shown me that small acts of support can transform a life,” Alex explained. “But to keep that work going, we desperately need funds. I hope that this challenge not only raises money, but also raises awareness of the young people we’re here to help.”
Alex dubbed the challenge 50@50. For nearly a year, he has been a regular sight in Newton Abbot and across South Devon—training early in the mornings, late in the evenings, and racing on weekends. From battling injury niggles to running in torrential rain, his determination has never faltered.
Each half-marathon—13.1 miles, every single week for 50 weeks—is a feat in itself. Alex’s challenge will see him run over 650 miles in under a year, the equivalent of running from Newton Abbot to Paris. Along the way, friends, colleagues, and strangers have joined him on training runs, cheered him at finish lines, and donated generously. Yet with just weeks to go, he is still a considerable way off his £10,000 target.
The £10,000 Alex hopes to raise will directly fund mentoring and life skills support for 50 young people across Devon—offering them the guidance and encouragement that many have never had before.
“Every pound raised goes towards giving these young people a chance,” said Hannah Moon from Life Chance Trust. “Alex has shown such commitment, and now we’re calling on the community to help him cross the finish line—not just of his running challenge, but of his fundraising goal. Together, we can change lives.”
Alex is now appealing for support in this final crucial week. Whether through donations, sharing his story, or joining him for his last run at Torbay, every little bit of encouragement and every penny counts.
https://www.lifechancetrust.org.uk/
