Dear all,

 I am running the London Marathon 2015 in April to raise money for two great causes that are close to my heart. Parkinson's UK and Alfred Salter Primary School, please support me!  

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition affecting movements, such as walking, talking and writing. There are 120,000 people with Parkinson’s in the UK alone and around 10,000 are diagnosed with the condition each year. There is currently no cure.

My grandad, Reg Hopkins died of Parkinson's disease in 2014 so I am running and raising money in his memory. Here is a little bit about my grandad and why I’m doing this for him…

REG HOPKINS 1928-2014

                   ‘Bermondsey Boy’

My grandad took to jogging at Battersea Park to keep fit. In 1960 he became a member of Belgrave Harriers Athletics club. He was part of road running teams, competing in many marathons himself! For over a decade he involved himself in the club’s affairs, taking over the organisation of junior teams covering all ages from 11 to 20.

He was always extremely busy outside of athletics, organising Boys Club activities in Bermondsey. He was made President of Belgrave Harriers in 1976 and was always extremely proud of his club. Above all he’ll be remembered for the tremendous impact he made on hundreds of South London boys from all walks of life, endowing them with the confidence to make their own way in the world.

My grandad was a youth worker at the Oxford and Bermondsey Youth Club. As a child I remember him best for creating games, competitions, singing and playing on the guitar. Being a teacher now makes me think back to how all those little things are important to children and how I use a lot of them in my teaching every day.  That is why I have combined my fund raising to support Parkinson’s and Alfred Salter Primary School. My grandad’s passion for sport and teaching children are the same passions I have today.

Alfred Salter Primary School

I feel very lucky to be a teacher at Alfred Salter. It is a wonderful school providing many opportunities for children. Over the last three years I have established fantastic relationships with staff, children and parents who have all supported my growth as a teacher. I owe a lot to Alfred Salter and now currently as PE coordinator I wish to give something back. I wish to establish a sporting culture that enables and encourages all children to play and enjoy sport. For this to happen I want to raise some additional money to build new facilities and buy resources.

Whatever you can give would be sincerely appreciated.

Many, many thanks for your support!

Charlotte

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