Among the runners waiting for the starter’s gun to fire at the 2016 SABIC Fun Run on Sunday, September 4 will be Brian Woodhouse – at the tender age of 82.
Brian will be joined at the start line by his four-year-old great granddaughter Scarlett to raise money for the respiratory ward at the James Cook University Hospital.
His fund-raising effort followed the death two years ago of his wife of 56 years Ellen after a lifetime of suffering with chest and lung conditions.
Brian said: “I decided I wanted to try to help the ward for all the years they helped and supported my wife so in May I decided I would take part in Ali Brownlee 5k.
“I enjoyed it that much that I decided I’d do the SABIC 3k Fun Run.
“My great granddaughter Scarlett remembers Ellen or Nana Nellie as she was known so she said she wants to do it with me, which is great.
“I only wish I’d started being active years ago but as they say it’s better late than never!
“I have actually watched the event for many years and the atmosphere is fantastic, this year I’ll be part of it and I can’t wait.”
Brian and Scarlett will also be joined at the start line with another five of his grandchildren each of them raising funds for the respiratory ward.
Councillor Lewis Young, Middlesbrough Council’s Executive Member for Culture, Leisure and Sport, said: “Brian is testament to the fact that age is no barrier to taking part in these great events.
“There really is something for everyone, regardless of age or ability, and I’m sure he will inspire others to sign up and reap the benefits of a bit of healthy exercise.”
For full details and entry information on the 2016 Taylor Wimpey Tees Price 10k and SABIC 3k Fun Run on Sunday, September 4 visit www.runmiddlesbrough.com, drop in to any of Middlesbrough’s Everyone Active sport and leisure venues or call 01642 200833.
Entries close on Sunday, August 28.