AN AWARD-winning photographer and conservationist known for his work in Africa and the Polar regions, Paul Goldstein is on route to completing 25 marathons in 25 days.

Having passed through Monmouth at 8am on Wednesday September 3 we spoke to Paul himself to ask how he embarked on his journey and how it was going so far.

Paul began his journey in Scotland in a place called Tigerton to finish at Tiger Bay in Wales, he states that despite it being agony, from the support he has received from his friends, family, colleagues and people along the way it makes it worth it.

He describes the difference between training for a walking marathon and an ordinary running marathon.

“You’ve got to be fit, and you’ve got to put in the miles.

From walking to so many places the community and support from people who have joined him and who he has met along the way have kept the spirits high and have been a great support system.

“Other people make a big difference; the support team is extraordinary. You just get into a Zen-like state where you don’t think about tomorrow or about the finish or what you’re going to eat that night, you think about the next mile and the one after that.

“But most importantly not until about now have I ever thought for a moment, I was going to complete it.”

Paul confirms there have been many memorable moments throughout his journey.

“I think it’s the moments you have with people; you make a lot of difference.”

From the marathons they have nearly raised £30,000 and it's all going towards Tigers4Ever charity, preventing the extinction of tigers, trying to reduce tigers' death due to poaching/ poisoning to ensure they have a wild future.

Paul completed his 25th marathon in his tiger suit on Everest. Overall, he has nearly raised £500,000 for endangered species, mainly tigers.

Lots of people have emphasised their support towards this great cause. Paul said how people will rush out with cups of tea, they will bring you doughnuts.

“They want to be invested in it, and does that make a difference, of course it does.”

We wanted to know what it was like to wear a tiger on your back, especially for such a long time.

“It’s not that heavy, it’s awkward and when it’s raining and windy, yes, it’s tough, Said Paul.

The tiger is waterproof, and it is made from a variety of materials including resin, polystyrene, Styrofoam and a metal frame. It’s based on a photograph Paul took in 2005, and the tiger was used in its first marathon in 2010 so that’s what it’s based on. Paul has stated the tiger has been worn on his back for the last 46 marathons.

This challenge is extraordinary and is a remarkable opportunity to raise money and awareness for charity. It is a remarkable reminder that whilst tigers cannot speak for themselves, we can choose to be their voice.