AFTER travelling more than 800 miles and taking part in 44 events in just one year, one man's challenge to raise money and awareness in memory of an inspirational fundraiser is set to come to a close.

Computer engineer Will Ash, from Bicester, took to the streets of Las Vegas to complete the final leg of his mammoth 12 month challenge to run, dance and climb in memory of close friend Alice Byron.

Miss Byron, also from Bicester and girlfriend of Mr Ash's twin brother, passed away in July 2016 after being diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and later leukaemia.

During her fight with blood cancer Miss Byron raised almost £28,000 and Mr Ash wanted to help continue her support for blood cancer charity Anthony Nolan.

He challenged himself to take on multiple marathons and charity events throughout the year.

The 23-year-old's immense fundraiser was completed when he crossed the finish line of the Las Vegas Marathon on the city's famous strip.

He said: "Las Vegas was a tough marathon to finish on – jet lag, the heat, the night start and the unusually high altitude for a city all played a part in making it one of the tougher marathons I've completed this year.

"Running the length of the strip was an unforgettable experience.

"Nearing the end, knowing that this was all that separated me from achieving my goal pushed me on to get me over the line."

Mr Ash has tackled ballroom dance competitions, tough mudder events, full marathons, half marathons, SAS challenges, Swim Serpentine and the Four Peaks Challenge.

His commitment has seen him branded the 'Weekend Warrior', as he only takes on events at weekends.

Over the year he has travelled around the world, including South Africa, Finland, Gran Canaria and Bath, where Miss Byron's went to university and carried out much of her fundraising.

Mr Ash has so far raised £5,447.75 and has an online target of £6,000, but would like to go beyond that.

He said: "The fundraising is going great, a lot of people have been so generous in giving what they can to make the cause worthwhile.

"We're so close to my target total now, and I would love to be able to hit it and go beyond.

"This year is about making sure that what Alice started doesn't end, raising awareness of the great work Anthony Nolan does."

As a result of Mr Ash's dedication to raising money and awareness throughout the year he has been named as a finalist in this year's Anthony Nolan Supporter Awards.

He is in the running for the charity's 'Special Recognition' award after receiving an overwhelming number of nominations.

Anthony Nolan chief executive, Henny Braund, said: "Will’s efforts towards raising both awareness and funds for the charity have been astonishing.

"He has dedicated an incredible amount of time to Anthony Nolan and his work certainly deserves to be recognised."

The winner will be announced at the House of Commons on November 28.

To follow Mr Ash's blog on his fundraising or to donate to the cause see williamash.co.uk