A former Spalding market stall-holder has completed a personal challenge by running ten miles in under two hours carrying 35lb on his back.
Ian Johnson (63) headed for the Parachute Regiment’s training ground near Colchester in Essex at the weekend (March 21).
He completed the tough course last year raising money in memory of his great-nephew Billy Slater who died aged just eight.
Ian raised money for the Metabolic Support UK Charity in his memory.
“His grandmother, my mother-in-law, lives in Spalding and everyone was totally devastated,” said Ian, who took two hours and 12mins to complete the course last year.
His great nephew contracted flu which triggered a metabolic condition that took his life suddenly.
Billy’s Boulders Facebook page has more than 7,000 followers and encourages people to paint a rock for him. The ‘boulders’ have been left in various countries from the UK to Spain and Thailand.
During the 2025 race Ian, of Swineshead, tore a calf muscle having suffered Achilles tendonitis just days before the event.
“I wanted to prove to myself I could do it again this year. I didn’t start running again until November and wasn’t sure then – but I completed three laps carrying a 35lb Bergen (backpack) over a hilly, muddy and wet course,” he said.
It’s popular for military personnel and Ian had served as a member of the Royal Military Police.
He ran a furniture stall as Fairprice Furnishings on Spalding’s Tuesday market and also on Saturdays before retiring alongside his wife Heather when COVID struck.
- Breaking News
