Telecoms engineer takes on shirtless 5k challenge in memory of much-loved Lancaster man

Thursday, 27 November 2025 13:01

By Greg Lambert @greglam72

Ben Leamy (right) with friends Josh Collins and Harry Finan completing one of the runs this month and, right, Cameron Gallacher.

A telecoms engineer has spent the month running 5km every day topless to raise funds in memory of a friend described as "one of life's good guys".

Ben Leamy has been taking on the challenge in tribute to Cameron Gallacher, who lost his life in a road accident in Thailand earlier this year aged 26.

Ben has been joined by friends and family during his regular runs, many of them in bitterly cold weather, raising funds for St John's Hospice.

Cameron, from Lancaster, and who worked at Heysham Power Stations, regularly donated to the hospice.

Ben said he was inspired by Cam's sister and friends who recently ran the Lancaster Half Marathon in his memory.

"Cam really was one of life’s good guys, always having time to speak to you and ask how you are and would always look after his friends," said Ben, who is from Bolton-le-Sands and works for Openreach.

Below, Ben pictured with Cameron and their friend Kieran Stretch.

"It really was a pleasure to have known him and his amazing energy will live on forever along with the superb memories.

"Cam was in good shape and took pride in his size he’d gained in the gym over the years.

"He would always be up for a laugh himself so what better way to remember him, despite my less than impressive physique I’ll be completing the runs with no shirt on.

"November isn’t famous for its great weather but wind, rain or snow we will get it done all in the memory of Cam!"

Below, Cameron Gallacher.

Ben's final run will start and finish at the Slyne Lodge on Sunday (November 30), beginning at 3pm.

The fundraising page can be found HERE.

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