In 2016, as Mayor of Warrington, I was given the opportunity to start the race and to watch every runner set off as they pursued their personal goals.

I was inspired by the dedication and hard work of all the runners, and the amazing community atmosphere of Warrington South that I have decided to take part in this year’s English Half Marathon (well, the 10k event).

This will come as a surprise to many who know me and there is no doubt that it will be a personal challenge. But, as anyone who knows me will tell you, I never shy in the face of a challenge.

I am running in the name of my mother who recently passed away.

I will be raising money for two great local charities, whose vital work is on issues that are close to my heart.

St Rocco’s Hospice and Care UK!

St Rocco’s Hospice provides specialist care and support across Warrington, helping those who are coping with a life-limiting illness. They provide quality care and promote social, psychological and spiritual wellbeing for patients with life limiting illness, and in doing so place patients, carers and families at the heart of everything they do. Yet, did you know that only around a third of funding is provided by the NHS? The rest comes directly from the fundraising from the community of Warrington South. I was a trustee of St Rocco’s up until recently. I stood down when I was elected as Warrington South’s MP. However, as a patron for this important local charity, I hope to raise as much money for them as possible.

Care UK is another fantastic local charity, which I am proud to be a patron of. The charity recycles unwanted household and personal items to distribute as Aid to people in need. The items are sorted and packed to go into containers which are sent to refugees in Syria and Greece in 40 ft containers. To date they have sent 36 containers. The Charity also assists Syrian refugees who have settled in the UK and local people referred by Social Services or other charities who often have almost nothing available to them to set up home or conduct their lives. Items that are not useful are distributed to local charities such as large and extra-large clothing to the YMCA, blankets to the dogs home, food in jars to the women’s shelter. They can always find a good home for almost anything donated.

For those who I will be running alongside in September – I wish you good luck! I know I will certainly need it.

And for anyone who is yet to sign up for the race, I hope this evening has inspired even more of you to don your running gear and join us! The race is a fantastic opportunity to support wonderful charities, to chase your own fitness goals, and of course to celebrate our wonderful town.