Young Redditch runner raises over £50,000 for Molly Ollys charity with Ireland End-to-End challenge

Samuel Attwell completes 350-mile solo run to support Warwick children’s charity

Samuel at the finish line
Author: Katy WhitePublished 1st Jun 2026

21-year-old Samuel Attwel from Redditch has completed a remarkable 350-mile solo run across Ireland, raising over £50,000 for the Warwick-based charity Molly Ollys in the process.

Set amidst the challenging terrains of rural Ireland, the ten-day charity run saw Samuel venture from Malin Head in County Donegal to Mizen Head in County Cork, traversing through multiple counties including Derry, Leitrim, Longford, Offaly, and Tipperary.

Samuel undertook this feat to support Molly Ollys, which provides vital emotional and practical assistance to children with life-threatening illnesses. The charity operates in both the UK and Ireland, offering invaluable resources such as the Olly The Brave books and therapeutic toys to hospitals and families.

Motivated by personal loss, including the passing of his grandmother and best friend, Samuel's commitment to the cause was unwavering.

“The challenge was incredibly tough, but knowing it was for Molly Ollys and seeing the donations continue to pour in was euphoric,” Samuel said.

Oakland International Co-Founders Sallie and Dean Attwell expressed immense pride in their son's achievement and praised his heart and resilience.

Funds from the challenge are set to help Molly Ollys grant up to 100 wishes for seriously ill children, providing crucial support during difficult times.

Donations remain open to further aid Molly Ollys' mission in the UK and Ireland.

Rachel Ollerenshaw, co-founder of Molly Ollys, commended Samuel for his dedication, acknowledging the sheer enormity and difficulty of his challenge.

Molly Ollys was founded in 2011 by Rachel and Tim Ollerenshaw to help families manage the emotional impacts of terminal or life-limiting illnesses.

The charity’s Olly The Brave initiative continues to support and educate via therapeutic toys and resources.

Samuel's incredible journey stands testament to the power of determination and community support in achieving charitable goals.

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