A fit Chesham grandfather is pushing himself during this Ramadan to raise money for war—torn Syria.

The 57-year-old father and grandfather Amjad Mahmood set himself the task of running over 350km (217 miles) during the holy month of Ramadan, driven by his commitment to supporting international humanitarian charity, Penny Appeal.

All the funds he raises go towards helping Syrian families displaced by the long war and on-going conflict with new homes, as many continue to live in refugee camps in difficult conditions.

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Although running even just once while fasting can be extremely physically and emotionally draining, Mr Mahmood has kept on going, covering more than 339km (210 miles) already. 

He said: “What I go through on these runs doesn’t even come close to what people who have been caught up in the Syrian war and living in poverty have to deal with on a daily basis.

“We are so lucky to have a home, a family, and enough food and water.

“It’s only right that if you are able to, you do good for other people.”

Fasting from 4am every morning, Mr Mahmood fights exhaustion and dehydration.

On the 16th day of this Ramadan, he even ran a half marathon. 

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Keeping the people he is supporting clear in his mind has helped to drive him towards his kind goal, and so far tens of people have been touched to donate £3,300 out of his £5,000 goal. 

Mr Mahmood said: “If I can help them by giving them a new home, then all of this is worthwhile.

“The generous donations that I receive really do make a huge impact.”

Ramadan, the holy month for Muslims around the world, began in the UK on April 1, and it ends in the evening of Sunday May 1, followed by the celebration of Eid al-Fitr.

Fasting is a crucial part of the Islamic faith alongside testimony of faith, prayer, charitable giving, and making a pilgrimage to Mecca. 

You can find the fundraising page here.