A Macclesfield man will run the Macclesfield Half-Marathon with some gardening equipment, to raise funds for a local good cause.

James Barlow (41) will trek the Macclesfield Half Marathon this weekend for ANDYSMANCLUB, who recently opened up a group in Macclesfield which champions men's mental health.

Not content with the mere challenge of running 13.1 miles, the quad bike company owner by trade will run the local race while pushing a lawn mower.

He already raised almost £700 for ANDYSMANCLUB last year, by running 236 miles across Wales, as covered by Macclesfield Nub News.

James pictured in Market Place, Macclesfield. (Image - Macclesfield Nub News)

And will now hope to beat that by pushing a lawnmower through the Macclesfield Half Marathon on Sunday October 29.

It isn't too late to take part in the Macclesfield Half Marathon. You can enter on this link.

"I will be taking on the Macclesfield Half Marathon pushing a lawnmower," said James.

"Raising money and awareness for ANDYSMANCLUB especially in Macclesfield. ANDYSMANCLUB are also planning on sponsoring the race."

He wants to raise £500, as well as training for a Guinness World Record next spring.

"This will build up to a Guinness World Record attempt next spring, to do the most miles pushing a lawnmower in 24hrs (currently is 77 miles).

"This world record is currently held by an Aussie."

To add another twist, the fundraising superhero and mental health champion will be dressed as Batman, instead of traditional running gear.

ANDYSMANCLUB meet every Monday evening at Macclesfield Leisure Centre.

The former Whirley and Henbury High Pupil had never done a marathon until 2021. Now he's one of Macclesfield's most prolific marathon runners. (Image - Macclesfield Nub News)

They aim to break the stigma of men's mental health, and are a free, confidential support group.

"Suicide is the biggest killer of men under the age of 45," explained James.

"Please help me by spreading the word that there is always help out there, and it's always the hardest part to reach out but things can get better."

James is familiar with overcoming mental health issues. Even he admits that he never spoke to anybody when he was mentally struggling, so he wants other to do so through his athletic championing of the good cause ANDYSMANCLUB.

James training in Wales.

His training includes pushing around the lawnmower, so if you see him running around Upton Priory, Manor Park or The Pavillions, now you know why.

James is familiar with motors, works for H Whittaker & Son in Macclesfield.

Macclesfield: If you would like to support James on his £500 crowdfunding challenge, please head to this link.

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