A TEENAGER who has run more than 1,000 miles since January was surprised by a BBC Radio 1 presenter who turned up at his door.

Ryan Walmsley was told by his family he was to appear on BBC Radio Lancashire at the Witton Country Park, in Blackburn, to talk about his fundraising for Derian House Children’s Hospice.

However, BBC Radio 1 DJ Adele Roberts appeared at his home and told him he would be running with her to the park where his family and friends would celebrate his achievement.

Lancashire Telegraph:

The surprise was broadcast live on the Greg James breakfast show on Radio 1.

The former Darwen Vale High School student has ran an average of three miles a day this year and has already reached his 1,000-mile target.

The BAE Systems apprentice in Samlesbury ran just over a mile from his home to the park and completed a lap of the running track with his dad, Shaun Walmsley, staff from the hospice, cheerleaders from UCLan and the Blackburn Empire Theatre’s panto cast.

Ryan said he was happy to see so many of his family and friends turn up.

Lancashire Telegraph:

He said: “I had no idea this was going to happen.

“I was told BBC Radio Lancs were going down and I’d have quick chat, next thing I know Adele from Radio 1 and nine other people are in my front room.

“I’m really pleased with the support I’ve had from everyone while doing this challenge.

“I’ve run through sideways rain, howling wind, one of the hottest summers, it’s been a physical and mental challenge.”

Lancashire Telegraph:

Ryan has raised more than £3,472 for the hospice so far, which supports families of children with life-shortening and life-threatening conditions.

Darwen’s Walk This Way Choir group also performed live on the radio.

Ryan said: “I have done fundraising with Derian before and it felt right to fundraise for them this time.”

Lynne Walmsley, Ryan’s mum, said: “I am absolutely overwhelmed by all the support Ryan has received.

Lancashire Telegraph:

“I’m also very proud of him, he’s kept this up for so long.”

Kevin Bedford, fundraising manager at the hospice, said Ryan was an absolute superstar.

To donate to Ryan’s page, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ryan-walmsley.