Noel’s Redford House Party

This time last year, doctors were telling Noel Bollard that he would be lucky if he could run upstairs again, never mind head off on one of his beloved outdoor treks.

Which makes the Redford Park raver’s achievement today all the more remarkable – and inspiring.

Raising funds for Acquired Brain Injury Ireland, Noel ran a full-scale marathon around his hometown, leaving his home at 8.15am this morning, going up, down, around Greystones – and looping back again – before returning to his front door at 12.30pm.

And as he turned that final corner, family and friends were there to cheer him through those last, welcome and no doubt painful steps.

Having originally set himself the goal of raising €500, today, the total raised by Noel’s run – thanks to a €500 donation today from his employers, ESB – is now hitting the €5,000 mark.

And being the humble man that he is, Noel would rather thank everyone around him rather than bask in any glory…

“Massive thanks to the people of Greystones,” he stated shortly after the run, “plus, family and friends who have helped me raise this incredible amount over the last few weeks. And a big thanks for the support out on the roads today. I’m absolutely overwhelmed.

“Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

If not the bottom of his feet. Noel sat in the shower for 15 minutes this afternoon, letting his body get over the shock with some cool, refreshing water.

That water also helped the homecoming king get over over the shock of seeing so many people come out to support him in a run that was a lot more than just sweat and tears…

You can view (and download for free) the full gallery of hi-res pics here. And if you haven’t already, donate here. Ya cheap feck.