AN ‘EYE-opening’ marathon that saw a father and daughter run across West Africa in 30-degree heat has raised almost £1,300 for some of the world’s most vulnerable children.

Fifty-one-year-old Stephen John, of CMS Builders in Roch, and his daughter Rebecca took part in the Sierra Leone marathon to raise money for charity Street Child, which works to create educational opportunities for some of the world’s most vulnerable children.

Running in temperatures of well over 30 degrees and in almost 100 per cent humidity, Rebecca and Stephen were joined by fundraisers from around the world to take part in what has been described as ‘the world’s craziest and most worthwhile marathon’.

During their time in Sierra Leone, they also visited numerous Street Child projects and met some of the children and families their fundraising will support, many of whom have been orphaned by ebola.

Rebecca, who is based in Switzerland, has previously completed three marathons for Street Child, but this was Stephen’s first.

He said: “The trip was a huge eye-opener: I couldn’t believe the poverty and difficulties many people in Sierra Leone face.

“I strongly believe education is important for countries like Sierra Leone to develop and it was fantastic to visit schools and see firsthand where the money we raise is going.

“I also couldn’t believe how happy the children were with what little they have.

“The run was very tough but it was an adventure - along the way we were joined by numerous local kids who kept trying to pull my shorts down!

“It was an experience I will never forget and would like encourage others from Pembrokeshire to join us next year.”

Rebecca and Stephen have so far raised around £1,300. They paid for all flights, accommodation, and visas themselves, so all funds raised will go directly to Street Child.

To add to their total, visit sierraleonemarathon2016.everydayhero.com/uk/rebecca-2.

Until July 17, all funds raised will be doubled by the UK government.

To learn more about Street Child’s work, visit www.street-child.co.uk, or if you’re interested in getting involved, contact Rebecca on rebecca.rjohn@googlemail.com.