The managing director of a leading regional housebuilder pounded the streets of York to raise £3,000 for charity.
Wayne Gradwell from Persimmon Homes West Yorkshire took part in the York Marathon (October 20th) in support of Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice.
Although a keen runner, it was the first time that Wayne had attempted such a distance and, while he found it tough, he was spurred on knowing it was all for a good cause.
Wayne said: “Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice is our nominated charity for this year and as a company we have already raised over £11,000 but I wanted to make my own contribution.
“As I live in York and have a passion for running, the city’s first ever marathon seemed like the obvious choice.
“The weather was great and all my supporters helped make the first 16 miles feel comfortable but then cramp set in and the next 10 felt so hard. Stepping over the finishing line was such a relief both physically and safe in the knowledge that I had raised so much for the hospice.
“I’m delighted that so many friends, colleagues, suppliers and contractors sponsored me,” added Wayne. “I feel proud to have raised £3,000 but I wasn’t as happy with my time and have already entered next year’s event so I can beat it.”
Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice was launched more than 12 years ago by a mother whose son required hospice care. It has a brand new hospice building, Russell House in Huddersfield, and also operates a hospice-at-home service to support more than 50 children with life limiting conditions and their families. The charity has a £2.5m fundraising target each year in order to maintain its services.
Kate Goldring, Corporate Partnership Manager at the charity added: “We are delighted with the support of the Persimmon Homes team; their fundraising efforts have been amazing and for Wayne to take on a tough 26-mile challenge and raise so much is both outstanding and inspiring.”
To find out more about developments across West Yorkshire visit www.persimmonhomes.com.