Two old friends take on 150-mile challenge to raise funds for children with cancer 

This summer, two long-time friends, Nick Bird and Malcolm Barbour, are heading out on a gruelling 150-mile challenge to run around London’s Outer Orbital Path (LOOP) to raise funds for vital neuroblastoma research and support.

They are embarking on this unique challenge in memory of Nick’s son, Adam, who tragically died of neuroblastoma in 2013 at the age of nine. Starting and finishing at Nick’s family home in Epsom, the pair plan to complete the LOOP over the course of 48 hours, to coincide with the start of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month in September. 

Nick, Chair of Trustees for Solving Kids’ Cancer UK, was awarded an MBE in the King’s New Year’s Honours for his dedication to improving outcomes for children with cancer. He and Malcolm are experienced endurance runners, having each completed ultra-marathons before—but at 150 miles, this will be their longest and toughest challenge yet. 

Nick shared his motivations for taking on this challenge: “Neither of us were runners when we first worked together and became friends. We both came to running later in life. Although we’ve run marathons and even ultra-marathons, 150 miles is far beyond anything either of us has ever done before. Yes, this is about setting ourselves a personal challenge, but more importantly, it’s about doing something to honour Adam’s memory and raise awareness for families facing this devastating disease." 

High-risk neuroblastoma affects around 50 children in the UK each year, and despite an intensive 18-month treatment schedule their chances of survival are just 50%. Solving Kids’ Cancer UK is dedicated to funding research that delivers tangible impact and benefit for these children and providing vital support to families affected by the disease. 

Malcolm added: "This isn’t just a run—it’s a statement. A reminder that children with neuroblastoma and their families need more support, better treatment options, and greater hope. We’re calling on the running community, businesses, and the public to get behind us and help us make a difference."  

For more information, to donate, or to get involved, visit their Just Giving page.