A marathon man who is campaigning for anti-bullying and equality arrived in Largs and Millport during the past week, and has been proved to be an inspirational figure to others.

As recently reported, Ben Smith was looking for some company on the local leg of his massive challenge of 401 marathons in 401 days, and many locals answered his request.

The Bristol runner, who was recently interviews on BBC Radio about his exploits, arrived in Greenock last Tuesday, and went running with members of Greenock Harriers, before heading over the back road into Largs.

After stopping for lunch, Ben returned to Greenock, and then embarked on a trip to the Isle of Cumbrae on Wednesday morning, where he was joined by fellow runners at the Largs ferry terminal, including photographer Kevin McGarry who was suitably impressed. Kevin did two laps of the island, before returning to Largs, where he carried out a six mile lap of the town.

Kevin said: "It was a real pleasure to meet him, I have run 49 marathons myself but Ben inspired me to do my 50th and make a donation to his challenge."

Ben ran his first marathon three years ago is now attempting to run the massive challenge which has gained support nationwide. The 33 year old will run the 26.2 mile distance every day for just over 13 months to raise funds for anti-bullying and equality causes in the UK.

Ben was badly bullied for years at school but after coming out as gay two years ago, has never been happier. He hopes to raise £250,000 for Stonewall and Kidscape, having so far raised £105,000.

The #401RunwithBen Virtual Challenge launched on November 16th 2015 in line with Anti-Bullying Week. The anti bullying week theme is ‘Make a Noise about bullying’

The website states: "In the spirit of the 401 Challenge, we are challenging you as a community try and reach the mammoth goal of 401,000 miles to show that we stand united against bullying and are with Ben every step of the way! The 401 Run with Ben Virtual Challenge has been set up to let him and the rest of the UK know that he is not running alone."

After Largs, Ben headed onwards to Irvine, and Ayr, and reached Stranraer and Newton Stewart on Tuesday.

You can follow Ben's progress at http://www.the401challenge.co.uk/