SIX weeks after setting off on his epic journey across the Pyrenees, the finishing line is in sight for an intrepid estate agent.

Lizzie Parry

SIX weeks after setting off on his epic journey across the Pyrenees, the finishing line is in sight for an intrepid estate agent.

Mark Sargeantson, from Ipswich, has completed 500 miles of his 560-mile charity walk in memory of a pioneering Suffolk cancer specialist, Dr John LeVay who died of cancer in March.

Mr Sargeantson, a partner at Fenn Wright chartered surveyors and chairman of Ipswich Building Society, is due to complete his trip on Sunday, July 20 at the town of Banyuls-sur-Mer.

“I am still enjoying it; I can almost see the Mediterranean with 60 miles to the finish line on Sunday.

“I feel that the pressure is now off being so close to the end, but I am still very wary about not falling and twisting an ankle now I am so close,” he said.

With the end of his journey just within his grasp Mr Sargeantson is looking forward to crossing the finishing line and being reunited with his wife Liz.

In the final stages Mr Sargeantson is receiving much-needed support and company as his close friend Jonathan Ripman, chairman of the charity Cancer Campaign in Suffolk, is set to join him on Wednesday.

Mr Ripman is looking forward to the experience ahead of him, and running 10km twice a week has provided adequate training for the hilly terrain.

“Mark has been talking about this walk for many years now and I have always said I would like to go with him.

“When I found out he was doing it in aid of my charity it was irresistible and I felt obliged to join him. He has experienced a huge amount over the last 40 days, he is a dear friend and I am looking forward to walking with him.

“It is an astonishing achievement; it is heroic what he is doing, in my own small way I am looking forward to contributing.”

Mr Sargeantson, who is currently 7,000 feet above the small town of Vernet les Bains, is aiming to raise £50,000 for the Cancer Campaign in Suffolk.

To sponsor him visit www.justgiving.com/marksmountainwalk or call Gina Cooper at Cancer Campaign in Suffolk on 08456 026607.

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