FIVE friends are taking on the Virgin Money London Marathon to raise funds for a leading cancer charity.
Paul Cook, from Darlington, and his friends Mark Haymer, Mike King and Jamie and Charlie Gardner, hope raised more than £10,000 for Children with Cancer UK by the time they complete the 26.2-mile race on Sunday, April 13.
Mr Cook, who is a member of Darlington Harriers, ran the marathon for the same charity last year and hopes even more people with support the cause this time around.
“I knew I wanted to raise funds for a children’s charity as I am a father myself,” said Mr Cook, 39.
“The more I learn about Children with Cancer UK, the more passionate I feel about the cause. I can’t imagine what it must be like for the children or their parents.”
To help them reach their fundraising target, the team has organised a charity ball and auction at Rockliffe Hall Hotel on Friday, March 7.
Top athletes and many local businesses have donated prizes for the event, including the Newton Aycliffe-based shower designer and manufacturer Roman.
Tickets have already sold out for the ball but people can still support the team by making an online donation at uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/Londonmarathon2014
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here