An adventurer and former soldier has shattered a world record with an epic 16-day run across Britain, aiming to spotlight the severe pressures on dog rescue charities and the dark reality of illegal puppy breeding.
From the Lowest Point to the Highest Peak
Mitch Hutchcraft, 32, completed 16 ultramarathons on 16 consecutive days without rest, covering a staggering 720 kilometres. His journey began on 5 December at Holme Fen in Cambridgeshire, the UK's lowest point at 2.75 metres below sea level, near his hometown of Ramsey. He battled freezing rain, snow, and sheer exhaustion before finally reaching the summit of Ben Nevis in Scotland on 20 December.
The gruelling challenge was driven by a personal mission. Hutchcraft was inspired by his own rescue dog, Teddy, a cocker spaniel who spent his first four years nameless and confined to a concrete cage on a puppy farm. Teddy was one of 28 dogs rescued in a single operation.
A Nation in Crisis: The Staggering Strain on Rescues
Hutchcraft's run highlights a growing national emergency. Recent RSPCA figures reveal the number of dogs in its care in July 2025 was double that of July 2020. During his run, Hutchcraft and a filmmaking team visited five rescue centres, where staff reported record arrivals of young dogs with behavioural and health issues, many with untraceable histories.
The illegal puppy trade is estimated to be worth at least £160 million annually in the UK. Industry experts suggest only 15-20% of dogs come from licensed breeders, meaning the vast majority are bred in unlicensed or illegal operations with poor welfare standards.
"The UK is at a crisis point when it comes to these incredible dogs needing loving homes," Hutchcraft stated from the summit of Ben Nevis. "I felt I had to put my body on the line. This isn’t just about raising money. It’s about awareness. Families are being duped."
High-Profile Support and a Call to Action
The challenge attracted support from hundreds, including endurance legend Mark Beaumont and members of the public who ran with their dogs. High-profile figures like adventurer Ben Fogle and former England goalkeeper Joe Hart also voiced their backing.
Lauren Smith from Dogs Trust Glasgow advised the public: "Reach out to your local rescue charities if you’re not sure how to proceed... We always recommend families contact the ADCH, an umbrella organisation for reputable rehoming centres that operate to high welfare standards."
Hutchcraft, joined at times by his dogs Teddy and Buddy, consistently urged a simple message: 'adopt, don't shop'. He hopes the feat will drive lasting change. "The more light we can shine on what these dogs go through, the more people we can encourage to consider the incredible animals waiting in rescue centres," he said.
This record-breaking run follows Hutchcraft's earlier 'Project Limitless', a 237-day, 13,000km expedition from swimming the Channel to hiking Everest. Despite still recovering, he felt compelled to act for rescue dogs. Those looking to adopt are urged to contact local centres registered as charities or community interest companies.
