Visa Issue Halts Worthing Man's Attempt to Run the Length of Africa

Russell Cook, a Worthing resident undertaking a charity run across Africa, faces potential cancellation of his endeavor due to visa problems.

Originally aiming to run the equivalent of 360 marathons in 240 days, Cook's journey expanded after setbacks, including an armed robbery. Now, after 278 days and covering 12,000km across 13 countries, raising over £140,000, his progress hinges on obtaining an Algerian visa.

Acknowledging the issue on a platform formerly known as Twitter, Cook has garnered support from MPs Tim Loughton and Alexander Stafford, who have pledged to assist via diplomatic channels.

Cook, known as "Hardest Geezer," appeals to supporters for help in securing his visa, which he sees as the only path to complete his challenge at Tunisia's northernmost tip.

The run, which began at the southern tip of South Africa on April 22, aims to raise funds for The Running Charity and currently boasts £142,659 in donations. Despite extending his route beyond the planned 9,320 miles due to various difficulties, Cook remains determined to finish.