A team of ten runners from Wigan are preparing to take on an extraordinary endurance challenge this summer, running 550 miles in just four days from The Brick Community Stadium to Stade Jean Bouin in Paris to raise money for two children’s charities.
The challenge, called “The Long Run for Little Heroes”, will take place from 3 to 6 June 2026 and has been organised by Lee Hogg, Managing Director of Voca Fire Protection Group.
The team, made up of family members, friends and colleagues, all share strong ties to the local community and a common goal of raising vital funds and awareness for Wigan Youth Zone and Alder Hey Children’s Charity.
As ongoing patrons of Wigan Youth Zone, the group say they have seen first-hand the impact the organisation has on young people across the area. The Youth Zone provides a safe and supportive environment where young people can build confidence, develop skills and find a sense of belonging.
Alongside this, the team is also supporting Alder Hey Children’s Charity, which funds life-saving treatment, equipment and facilities at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital.
For one of the runners, the cause is deeply personal. Team member Jess Pennington experienced the work of the hospital first-hand when her son Dillan required surgery after suffering serious heart problems. She says the care and compassion shown by staff at Alder Hey meant everything to their family.
Speaking about the challenge, Lee Hogg said:
“This challenge is about perspective. When our legs hurt or we’re exhausted, we keep going, because some children don’t get to choose their fight.
“We want to push ourselves to raise as much awareness and funding as possible for two incredible organisations that change lives every day.”
The team will run relay-style across the four days, covering the 550-mile route from Wigan to Paris with minimal rest while documenting their training and preparation along the way.
They hope the scale of the challenge will inspire support from across the community and beyond.
Donations can be made via the team’s fundraising page here.
You can also follow the team’s journey on social media as they prepare for the challenge and share updates from the road to Paris.
Facebook: here.
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