A WREXHAM runner has broken a Guinness World Record by achieving 500 consecutive half-marathons to raise money for a worthy cause.

Helen Ryvar, from Llay, has just completed her 500th consecutive half marathon in aid of the mental health charity 'Mind' following the tragic sudden death of her ex-husband in 2020. 

She began running and walking short distances every day and in February this year she embarked on a challenge to run a half marathon every single day.

As she started her final trek from The Crown pub in Llay, Wrexham, Helen was far from alone as supporters from the area came to join her in her final run before the well-deserved celebrations commenced. 

The Leader: Helen keeping up the pace during her final run.Helen keeping up the pace during her final run. (Image: Andrew Bond Photography)She said: "What an incredible turn out for my last consecutive half marathon run of this streak. I'm so grateful to everyone that showed up to support me yesterday or send me well wishes from across the globe.

"I'm really lost for words and still on cloud 9 after yesterday's party. Thank you to everyone who's helped or supported me on my journey. It's been an absolute blast. 

"Everyone that's been a part of this has made it so special. I'm still so very overwhelmed by the fact that I've actually got to this stage.

The Leader:

"I actually ran 501 as a finale, just a solo run along the canal in Llangollen to give me time to reflect on Tuesday's epic run with so many people."

The record-breaker also received a hand-drawn pencil sketch from Liam Stokes-Masey, a local artist, to congratulate her on the success of her challenge. 

Helen pushed to reach 500 runs as she has won a place on a charity challenge sponsored by Venari Partners to trek across Petra and continue to raise money for her chosen charity alongside eight other people in October. 

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The 42-year-old checks in at the Morrisons Daily store in Llay almost every morning before or after a run, to get a photo with the best headline to prove the date that she ran.

Helen has shared her entire journey on social media and has gained many supportive followers.

She has raised over £4,000 for her chosen charity and is planning on taking a well-deserved social media break to recover from her daily updates. 

A huge congratulations to Helen on her wonderful achievement.