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Powerlifter raises thousands for Alzheimer's Society pulling Ford Fiesta over half marathon distance around Dartford Central Park Athletics track

A runner-turned strongman is on course to reach his fundraising target for a dementia charity after towing a car around a track for more than 25km.

Sports club manager David Cooke pulled his Ford Fiesta around Central Park Athletics stadium in Dartford Park over a 24 hour period.

Dave Cooke pulled a car around Dartford Central Park Athletics Track over the equivalent of a half marathon distance. Photo: Ian Cooke/ ICookeImages
Dave Cooke pulled a car around Dartford Central Park Athletics Track over the equivalent of a half marathon distance. Photo: Ian Cooke/ ICookeImages

The 43-year-old is no stranger to a challenge having previously set Guinness World Records, including running the London Marathon in chain mail for the London Air Ambulance.

But for his latest challenge the dad-of-two attempted to tow his hatchback for more than 20 miles, relying only on his own horsepower.

In the end, Dave pulled the car for 25km – the equivalent of more than a half marathon – but came up short of the record.

However, he succeeded in his ultimate task which was to raise thousands for a cause close to his heart.

Speaking last month, he said: "Alzheimers is quite dear and close to my heart as I lost my father to Alzheimers around 18 months ago.

Dartford Mayor cllr, Rosanna Currans, right, was on hand to oversee the record atempt. Photo: Ian Cooke/ ICookeImages
Dartford Mayor cllr, Rosanna Currans, right, was on hand to oversee the record atempt. Photo: Ian Cooke/ ICookeImages

"So this challenge is not just about pulling the car and raising some money but its also personal to me and turning my grief into something positive."

Despite a gruelling 18 months of preparation the difficulties have not just been physical.

One of the most challenging aspects Dave experienced was finding a place to conduct the attempt safely.

Thankfully he received support from Dartford Central Park Athletics club and Dartford council who provided him use of the town sports track to complete the challenge.

Following the event, he said: "Sadly I didn't set a new record but did cover over 25km of the track and I'm on course to hit my £5000 target for Alzheimer's Society.

"The car pull was a mental and physical challenge, one which really tested me to the absolute limits. But the finalie was everything and more."

To donate to the fundraiser click here.

Read more: All the latest news from Dartford

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