Emmerdale's Joe-Warren Plant completes impressive challenge away from the soap - and a co-star is in tears

Emmerdale star Joe-Warren Plant has been praised by fans and co-stars after completing a huge personal challenge. The Jacob Gallagher actor took part in the Berlin Marathon over the weekend to raise money for the Mental Health Foundation.

Sharing photos from the event on Instagram, Joe wrote: "Can’t get over how amazing this past weekend has been. Since my first Marathon last year in Edinburgh I’ve been desperate to do another. I feel very lucky to box one of the@wmmajors off for my 2nd attempt! (Berlin is so cool!

"After a poor second half to my training plan I didn’t manage to get the Sub 4 I wanted but maybe next time. Reminder to self: Never underestimate a Marathon!

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"I’m struggling to think of things to say that will do these moments justice. But what I can say is whilst it’s definitely one of the most difficult of challenges, I encourage everyone to do at least one in their lifetime."

Joe, who has already raised £1,257 for the charity via his JustGiving page, thanked everyone who has donated so far, adding: "Your generosity is what kept me going throughout those 4hrs and 14 minutes. From the bottom of my heart, it means a lot.

"I’m not quite at my target yet so if I can once again encourage people to go to the Just Giving page in my bio, in support of @mentalhealthfoundation I will be forever grateful."

In the comments Joe recieved much praise from his co-stars, with Charity Dingle actress Emma Atkins even writing that she was in tears over his achievement.

Emma wrote: "Aw Joe this is beautiful what an incredible achievement you got me crying here. Sending warm hugs you legend. Well done. I’ll be sure to donate xxxx."

Laura Norton added: "Well done superhuman superhero," while Karen Blick wrote: "Well done amazing achievement."

On his JustGiving page, Joe explained why he chose the Mental Health Foundation to raise money for.

Related: Emmerdale reveals shock collapse for struggling Gabby Thomas

"We need to give more people the opportunities and tools to receive the help they need," the actor wrote.

"So we can curate our own guide book. So we can figure out what works for us. So we don’t have to suffer in silence.

"I hold this topic very, very close to my heart. And I know a lot of other people do to. It’s in our nature to care and to help one another."

Emmerdale airs on weeknights at 8pm on ITV1, and streams on ITVX.

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