16 July 2025
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Mission accomplished: Bob Yates in John O’Groats at the end of his epic journey
Vectaire’s Bob Yates chose a remarkable way to celebrate his 60th birthday – running more than 1,000 miles from Land’s End to John O’Groats to raise almost £6,000 for the Humanity Direct charity.
Bob, National Specification Manager for the ventilation specialist’s New Build Division, tackled the Run Britannia event to support Humanity Direct’s work to fund operations for children in Uganda who don’t have access to the medial care they need.
Three years of preparation for the epic challenge culminated in eight marathons over the final five months before Bob headed to the start line at Britain’s southernmost point in Cornwall. After clocking up a grand total of 1,031 miles and 28,605m of elevation over the next 35 days (including just four rest days), he completed the event in the far northeast of Scotland.
Bob pictured in Cornwall as he headed towards John O'Groats
Bob said: “When I crossed the finish line, the sheer fatigue was overwhelming. I couldn’t even begin to process the magnitude of what I’d achieved. I had set out to run — or walk when necessary —from the southernmost point of Britain to its northernmost tip. It took three years of preparation, gradually increasing training distances and complementing them with regular weekly strength work.
Incredible journey
“Compared to many of my fellow runners, I fared relatively well in terms of injury. But by the final week my body was hanging by a thread. Blisters, adductor strains and shin splints all made their presence felt. I normally avoid painkillers but by that stage they had become my constant companions — making the difference between being able to run and having to power walk.
Some much-needed physio support as the going gets tough
“I was incredibly fortunate to have such a motivated support crew and my fellow runners were a brilliant bunch of like-minded individuals — united by a shared challenge and a common cause.
“Looking back now, it truly was an incredible journey. The richness, diversity and awe-inspiring beauty of the landscapes we passed through offered constant moments of wonder amidst the daily grind.’’
Bob at the Severn Bridge as he clocked up the miles
Humanity Direct has funded over 1,000 operations for children in Uganda, from skin grafts to neurosurgery, as well as surgery for hernias, cataracts, tumours and congenital defects. The charity also operates the Glasses for Classes scheme, which has conducted almost 34,000 eye tests and provided nearly 7,000 children with prescription glasses so they can see clearly for the first time.
Bob’s efforts have to date raised £5,674, with money still coming through. He said: “To everyone who donated, left a message of support, or followed my journey: thank you. Because of your generosity, some disadvantaged children will benefit — and that’s a fine legacy to leave.’’
Donations can still be made at:
www.humanitydirect.org/bob
