Cllr Richard Body, ward councillor for Cradley & Wollescote, Chairman of The Friends of Homer Hill Park and ex chain smoking couch potato, is attempting to run 2 marathons.
I have entered the Gloucester City Marathon on 6th August 2017 and the Birmingham International Marathon on 15th Oct 2017. I hope to raise funds for Homer Hill Park Cradley and promote the benefits of a healthier lifestyle change.
All funds raised will go towards a fitness track on the looped path. This will create a full body cardio workout track which is free for all. Regular cardio exercise along with a healthy balanced diet is proven to benefit both our physical and mental health.
Back in June last year (2016) during an NHS health check, I was diagnosed as obese and at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. I decided to radically change my lifestyle, I power walked daily and changed to a healthier diet. On the 5th August (2016) I started to run. This was the first time that I had done any running since leaving school in 1982.
Not running in over 35 years hasn’t come without certain complications. Lower back and Chondromalacia Patellae and arthritis knee pain, have been my constant companions. 
Many people raise money for very worthy national charities, however my community and its vital open green spaces are my passion. Please consider sponsoring me. In doing so your donation and all money raised, will be put towards Homer Hill Park’s fitness track, helping to promote a healthier and fitter community for all.
Kind Regards Richard