A LOCAL optician has completed a running challenge to raise money for an Alzheimer’s charity.

Emily Couling, 24, from Hazelbeach in Milford Haven, ran 100 miles in 26 days and raised £450 for Alzheimer’s Society – a charity that is very close to her heart.

In 2014, her grandad was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and now, at the age of 86, his condition is very advanced, meaning he has to live in a specialised care home.

Emily, who is a pre-registration optometrist at Specsavers Pembroke Dock, says: ‘My grandad couldn’t believe that I was running the equivalent distance from home to Bristol – he thought I was bonkers, but he was really impressed.

‘The challenge was really difficult as, although I like to keep fit, I have never come close to running 100 miles in just 26 days. But I would do it all again to raise money for such an incredible charity.’

Emily has worked at the store since she was 18 – apart from a three-year break to go to university in Bristol where she gained the Dean’s award for academic excellence in both her first and second year – and went on to graduate with a first in optometry.

She adds: ‘Things have been really difficult for us as a family, but the charity has helped my grandad and all of the family understand the condition a little bit better, which we’re really thankful for.’

Next year, she is planning to take on the three peaks challenge, climbing Snowdon, Scafell Pike and Ben Nevis within 24 hours, to raise more money for Alzheimer’s Society.

To find out more information about Specsavers Pembroke Dock, request an appointment or browse the online store, visit www.specsavers.co.uk/pembrokedock.