An Irvine endurance runner is preparing for his next major challenge after a disappointing result, with his fundraising for Whiteleys Retreat near Ayr now within £440 of its target.
Levi Charlton, a 53-year-old British Gas worker, is taking on a series of ultra-endurance races to raise money for the charity, which is based near Ayr. He has raised £1,560 towards a £2,000 goal, while his employer has agreed to match donations up to £500.
From a DNF to the Snowdonia 100
Charlton’s latest campaign suffered a setback at the GB Ultra Brecon Beacons 100 Mile race, where he recorded a DNF — did not finish. He responded by completing the Dunoon 33 Mile Ultra in August and has now set his sights on the Snowdonia 100 Mile race on September 5.
His completed challenges already include the Yorkshire 3 Peaks, the Devilla 8-Hour Trail, the 50-mile Pennine Way Ultra and the 104-mile Ultra Scotland. He has also previously completed a 220-mile footrace across Scotland.
“After the disappointment of a DNF, it feels great to be moving forward again with Snowdonia 100 firmly in my sights.”
Charlton said his remaining races in 2026 will be completed without a crew as he prepares for the Northern Traverse and Summer Spine in 2027. He described the approach as going “solo and expedition mode”.
Why Whiteleys Retreat matters
The runner chose Whiteleys Retreat after visiting its respite centre in Alloway. He has also previously raised money for the charity through Fit Ayrshire Dads and said he wanted to make his own contribution through the races.
“When you go down and visit them it's heartbreaking, which is why I wanted to take on these races for them.”
Whiteleys Retreat provides respite support, although the supplied report does not give further details about the services offered by the centre. Charlton said he has lived in the area for 30 years and finds that running gives him peace of mind.
“I've lived here for 30 years and it's such a stunning place to enjoy running, seeing all the beautiful scenery.”
Donations can be made through Charlton’s JustGiving fundraiser at justgiving.com/page/levi-charlton-5. With £440 still needed to reach the stated £2,000 goal, Charlton hopes to complete the fundraising before starting the Snowdonia event.
