Thanks for visiting my fundraising page.

In August 2008 we recieved the tragic news that my good friend Barry Neale had lost his long battle against cancer. I had met Barry and his lovely wife Josie after they had called me and had asked me to do some work for them. We hit it off instantly and became great friends. It was also around this time that we found out that Barry's illness was now terminal. However, he never complained, he was always smiling and his determination to get on with life never wained. One thing that was most obvious was his devotion to his wife Josie. If ever that there were two people that were made for each other, it was these two. It was one of those relationships that you could actually see get stronger and stronger each day.

A cause they both cared deeply about was that of the plight of "elephants".  If you want to know anything thats going on in the world today about these magnificent animals and their fight fo survival... just ask Josie. Whislt I have always admired elephants, I really knew very little about them, about how loyal they are to each other, how humanesque they appear, whether its when there is a new born in the herd or when they even go into mourning for a lost one.

Yet these animals are still battling to survive, poaching is still going on as Ivory is still very sought after but not only are these animals killed, they are butchered and mutilated often leaving behind orphans who then find themselves in another battle to survive.

In September 2009 (not long after the anniversary of Barry's death)  I'll be taking part in my 5th Great North Run, a challenging 13.1 mile half marathon. This time I'll be running for Barry (who himself in the past was a keen sportsman/ footballer) and  for Josie his ever devoted wife...... and of course..... for the elephants. Barry, Josie and the "Born Free Foundation" have and are, doing as much as they can...... now please help me to play my part to help secure the future of these majestic beings.

Thankyou,  David

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Born Free Foundation gets your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.

So please sponsor me