This week I will be attempting to undertake the Mark Cockbain’s self isolation ultra challenge by running 50kms (31.5 miles) around my garden in an attempt to raise much needed funds to support the amazing efforts of our local Covid Community Mutual aid volunteers. They are working with our surgery Eastwood Primary Care centre and local pharmacies to provide medication delivery drivers as and when needed to those in our local community. The Team members work together to provide essential help and support on a specified road or area to ensure our population is supported. This fantastic work is being lead by our very own Diane Rowley (EPCC community co-ordinator) who in her spare time (whenever that is!) is continuing to offer much needed support to local patients with dementia and their carers through a virtual service run by our Eastwood memory cafe. Living and working as a GP in Eastwood for 18 years I know many of the volunteers and have cared for many of local residents and very much feel I am part of our local community. I’m keen we do our bit to ensure they remain safe and well supported during what is a challenging time for many of us and hope the funds can be put towards a number of community support projects. For further information on the work of the group please go to their website https://eng-mutual-aid.bluerazor.co.uk

I love running but hate laps and for this to be a success will have to complete 243 laps non stop.

Thank you to everyone who donates. Any amount will be put to good use in the coming weeks. A massive thanks must also go to the volunteers without whom this life saving service just wouldn‘t exist. I salute you!