ANTI-bullying campaigner Ben Smith admits he was blown away by the support and the scenery on his return to the Borders at the weekend.

The 33-year-old from Bristol completed his 264th and 265th marathons in a row on Saturday and Sunday from Jedburgh and Peebles, respectively.

Ben began his 401 marathons in 401 days challenge on September 1, 2015.

With every stride he hopes to raise awareness of what damage bullying can do as well as raise funds for two charities dedicated to tackling bullying - Stonewall and Kidscape.

Just over 100 runners joined Ben on Saturday as he enjoyed 26.2 miles around Jedburgh, Ancrum and Lilliesleaf.

And on Sunday he completes another marathon from Tweed Green in Peebles with around 70 runners joining him for sections of the route, which was organised by local running minister, Barry Hughes..

Ben said: "It was such a lovely day in Peebles.

A massive thank you to Barry for sorting out the route today and also to Martin Holt who both guided is round the stunning hills and scenery.

"Thank you so much to everyone that came out and cheered, ran and supported. Peebles is a stunning place, with so much going on."

Bullying from the age of 10 led to Ben twice attempting to take his own life - a message he is keen to relay as he makes his journey around the UK.

His world record attempt of 401 consecutive marathons has already taken him all over the United Kingdom.

Sunday's route took Ben and his local running partners from Tweed Green over Cademuir, through Manor and down to Cardrona.

Barry Hughes told us: "Over 40 runners started from Tweed Green and we were joined by others at different stages.

"Some run a few hundred yards, some ran a few miles, and seven of us ran the full 26.2 mile route.

"It was a marathon with a difference – the first time I have known a marathon where there is a lunch stop half way round!

"Ben’s punishing schedule requires him to eat around 6,500 calories a day."

Ben will continue his 401 Challenge in Scotland for most of May.

He is scheduled to run his final, 401st, marathon in Bristol on Wednesday, October 5.

To donate to the 401 Challenge log onto www.the401challenge.co.uk