Lee Harker, a 41-year-old originally from Amble in Northumberland, is on day 32 of a self-funded challenge to run nearly 100 marathons in a row through six European countries, from the northern tip of Denmark to the most southern part of Spain. He is raising money for Paws4ever, a dog charity in Spain where he now lives with his wife Fay.
Challenge for elderly dogs
Lee, whose parents and younger brother still live in Amble, is aiming to raise €150,000 to build a facility at the shelter near Costa Blanca, between Alicante and Valencia, north of Benidorm. The new building would provide a more homely environment for elderly dogs that come into care late and do not cope well with a shelter environment.
“It's like jail to them,” he says. The facility could also act as a transition place for dogs due to be rehomed, allowing them to experience living in a home before making that move. It would also accommodate overnight stays by staff to keep the dogs company.
Volunteer work and personal motivation
Lee and Fay volunteer at the local dog shelter, and Lee describes working in a charity as “really really hard emotionally” and relentless. He and Fay initially had 10 dogs, seven of them rescue dogs, and now have eight, including three Chihuahuas, three terrier mixes, and two hunters. Their home has a special dog swimming pool that the shelter's residents also use on occasional day visits.
“I've always loved dogs; they are the best,” says Lee. “Whatever you give to them, you get back 10-fold.”
Progress and support
Lee, an offshore worker, has taken time off and even declined a contract for the challenge, which he expects to take about four months. His GoFundMe page has raised just over €20,000 so far, and he points out that 100% of donations will go to the charity.
He travels in a basic campervan and has the help of a support driver. His parents initially came over to help, followed by a friend, and then a couple from the shelter who brought their own dog. Lee has regular video calls with Fay, who makes sure the pets appear too.
He has had blisters and expects to lose three toenails, but says he is finding it easier than expected. “I've surprised myself!” he admits. “I can live with failing but can't live without trying,” he adds.
When last contacted, Lee was within three miles of Antwerp, with two more north-to-south marathons coming in France and Spain, expecting to finish at the end of October. Updates show he has since reached France, posting progress on Facebook and the Running4Paws2026 Instagram account.
