Deadpool surprises 80-year-old Luton fundraiser after he lifts 3 million pounds
An 80-year-old registered blind fundraiser was given a surprise visit from Deadpool after reaching the halfway point of his huge weightlifting challenge for CHUMS.
Phil Rutter has now lifted a combined 3 million pounds in weight since starting his challenge on July 8 at Lea Manor Recreation Centre in Luton.
He is aiming to lift a total of six million pounds and raise £60,000 for CHUMS, a charity he has supported and volunteered for more than 20 years.
Phil trains at the gym two to three times a week and has completed thousands of repetitions to reach the halfway milestone.
To mark the achievement Luton’s very own Deadpool turned up at the gym as the Marvel characters alter ego Wade Wilson to congratulate Phil.
Phil said: “I’m really pleased to have reached halfway. It has been hard work, especially during the hot weather, but I’m determined to carry on.
“There are another 3 million pounds to lift yet. It was a fantastic surprise to have Deadpool come along to the gym today. It was a great way to celebrate reaching the halfway point.”
Phil has continued his challenge throughout the summer, including during some of the hottest weather of the year.
Staff at Lea Manor Recreation Centre have been keeping track of the weights and repetitions he completes during each session and calculating his progress.
His guide dog Humbug has also been by his side throughout the challenge, accompanying Phil to the gym and staying nearby while he completes his lifts.
Phil's fundraising target is based on his physical challenge, with 6 million pounds lifted representing 6 million pence or £60,000 to be raised for CHUMS. So far, he has raised £1,622.
Sarah Phillips, Community Fundraising Manager at CHUMS, said: “Phil has raised £1,622 so far, but his target is £60,000, so there is still a long way to go.
“We hope people will hear about what he is doing and consider supporting him by donating or by sharing his fundraising page.”
When Phil reached the 1-million-pound milestone, former Luton Town player and club legend Mick Harford visited Lea Manor and even attempted some of the weights himself.
At 2 million pounds, BBC Three Counties Radio's Justin Dealey visited to interview Phil and have a go at the challenge and promised to return for Phil's final lift when he reaches 6 million pounds.
There is another significant milestone approaching for Phil, with Humbug due to retire at Christmas and hopes he will still be by his side when he completes his final lift.