IT WAS a pleasure and a privilege to watch the last few yards of Nikki Savings’ epic running challenge last Friday.

The 31-year-old completed her seven marathons in seven days when she crossed the finishing line at Bartons Mill in Old Basing.

As she finished, her supporters crowded around her, all eager to give her a hug and to congratulate her.

It was all for a little boy from Basingstoke called Frankie O’Connor, who was born with a rare brain condition that causes him to have seizures, limited mobility and no way of communicating.

Her challenge had clearly touched many, and she was accompanied on her final run by dozens of well-wishers, including Frankie’s father James.

When I spoke to her, she was receiving a well deserved sports massage on her legs, which must have gone through a great deal of punishment.

She did not want to dwell on any injuries she had received, instead focusing on Frankie and the support she had received from others.

More than £7,000 has been raised so far through Nikki’s efforts for The Joshua Deeth Foundation, which supports children with the condition and their families.

Everybody here at The Gazette would like to congratulate Nikki for completing her challenge.

Last weekend also saw another feat of fundraising, albeit on a slightly different scale.

Thousands of people returned to CarFest South at Laverstoke Park Farm in Overton and the sold-out festival is expected to raise millions of pounds for Children in Need.

It is clear this has grown into a very popular event for people of all ages.