Hi,

I am running my first ever
Marathon on 5th May in Newport.

I have embarked on this huge physical
and mental project with the great support of my family, friends and wider local
community be it the running community of Port Talbot or church community in the
Aberavon Benefice.

Through my running, I have raised
money for various important causes over the years. This time I would like to
offer something back to the local community and raise funds for the St Mary’s
Restoration Appeal.

St Mary’s Church is a Grade II
listed building in the centre of Port Talbot that has had a Christian presence
from at least 12^th Century. The restoration work that is being
undertaken there is of special importance to the local community and it needs
to be preserved in order to nurture future generations. It requires substantial
work such as essential roof repairs and heating system. The iconic view from M4
has been a symbol of the church community in the area.

Just a passage from the Aberavon
Benefice page hosting the Appeal.

Visitors come from far and near to see the grave of the legendary 'Dic
Penderyn, ' seen as a working class hero for his now widely regarded unjust
execution for a crime he probably did not commit. Bell ringers visit from a
great distance to have the chance to ring our magnificent peal, and our
graveyards are still the site of the burial of much cherished loved ones, whose
families place flowers and stand to remember those they love. The stained glass
windows are amazing examples of the artistry of the designer and the creator of
the pieces, and the Italian marble reredos and pulpit reveal to us the
background of the Victorian building that replaced the church of the Middle
Ages which was undermined by water from the flooding of the River Afan.

We need to preserve the building and the site for everyone, whatever
their needs. The £350,000 we must raise will make a huge difference to the
future of the entire place.

Please sponsor me for my Newport
Marathon and help to save the gem of the community.

Thank you,

Magda