So the Severn in Seven - what's that all about?
Adam:
On 7 October (and I don't remember agreeing to this), Helen Murray and I will attempt to run the length of the Severn Way in seven days. It basically follows the River Severn from its source in Wales all the way to the estuary near Bristol.
It looks worse when I type it. That's 210 miles in a week - Gulp!
Helen:
There was no alcohol involved and it wasn't even one of those stupid bets with a friend. Perhaps it was just a voice inside my head saying challenge yourself, see what's out there.
You're both pretty keen runners then?
Helen:
I've run a marathon, once, but that was four years ago and the amazing crowds had a lot to do with getting me across the finishing line. Then there was my gold Duke of Edinburgh Award in the Lake District, but that was walking in a group and it was only four days.
This time it's just me, Adam Green, Adam's Dad for support, lots of maps and a pair of trainers. What a thought!
Adam:
In April, I ran the London Marathon. It was nice (Tell the truth! - Ed)
Fine, fine. In April, I ran, jogged, walked and stumbled my way around the London Marathon course. It was fantastic, horrible and emotional all at once. A bit like being a Newcastle United fan I imagine...
It was an experience that will stay with me forever. So after that day of torment and triumph, and with it locked away safely in the memory banks, you'd think that I'd be more than content to minimise my running and instead take up something genteel like stamp collecting or carpet bowls.
How do you feel now the Severn in Seven is just around the corner?
Helen:
Of course I'm scared about the challenge ahead. I'm worried my knees will rebel against what I'm about to put them through or how I'll react when it's cold and wet and I'm lost in a field with only cows and sheep for company.
Adam:
Unlike the marathon, I'm not aware of the Severn Way having course marshalls or water stops. Or toliets. Or first aid tents. Or tarmac.
This is insane. I think we need a map.
As if 210 miles of running (and navigating) isn't enough, there's more to this than just the physical and mental challenge isn't there?
Adam:
There is plenty of other stuff we'd like to find out as we run the route: What do I know about Britain's biggest river? Who lives on it? What's its history? Where does it go? How easy is it to navigate? Where's the best pub? Who caught the biggest fish? What happens when the river meets the sea? Am I asking too many questions?
The run, the piffling, insignificant jaunt along the banks of the Severn is secondary to the real purpose of this project. It's all about your stories, your experiences, your photos and your feelings towards that ambling giant that maybe passes by your door, your village or your town.
Helen:
We're running the 210 miles as a relay, so there will only be one of us running at any one time. But it won't really be that lonely, because from source to sea, the River Severn has a massive influence on so many people.
From its barren beginnings in mid Wales to where it meets the sea near Bristol, this natural wonder links two countries, numerous counties, hundreds of communities and thousands of people. There are loads of stories to be told and we want to hear them.
So how's the training been going?
Helen:
I have been putting the miles in and my running kit has come with me everywhere since April, much to the amusement of housemates, friends and colleagues.
Adam:
Don't worry, I've been training. I've even bought myself a new running top to replace the one that had begun to smell like Gorgonzola. But the simple fact remains - it's going to be very, very hard.
When's the big day then?
Adam:
The Severn in Seven project begins on Tuesday 7 October and you'll be able to keep up with all of it on the BBC Shropshire website, as well as BBC Radio Shropshire and BBC Midlands Today. Keep listening to find out how to get involved. It really will be your input that makes it special.
And if you see a BBC journalist covered in mud by the side of a towpath or track, or leaning on your garden fence... Helen and I are both milk, no sugar.
Helen:
Will Adam and I cope? Find out by following our progress on your local BBC website, TV and radio station. But in the words of Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong, "Pain is temporary, quitting is final."
Question and Answers with Adam Green and Helen Murray.
