A FATHER and daughter running team have set the wheels in motion to raise hundreds of pounds for people affected by autism, epilepsy and disability.
Allan Bancroft and daughter Harriette Parker Harrison, nine, a pupil at Beaumont Hill Academy, Darlington, have clocked up over 18 km together, taking part in six fun runs across the North East, to help fundraise for the charity Support Dogs.
The Sheffield-based charity, where Harriette’s step-sister Amy Twamley works as a dog trainer, trains and provides specialist assistance dogs to support children and adults affected by significant medical conditions.
Allan, 43, said: “Harriette was born at 26-weeks weighing one pound two ounces and was in intensive care for the first two years of her life. She has cerebral palsy and other problems and can’t walk or talk.
“We started running together last September after Harriette underwent major hip surgery and was unable to ride her bike anymore.
“She loves the sensation of running, while being pushed in her chair, and it’s a great way for me to keep active with her.”
To date Allan and Harriette have raised in excess of £500 after taking part in The Junior Great North Run, The Arthritis Research Run, South Park, Darlington, and fun runs in Newton Aycliffe, Sunderland, York and Sheffield.
“Even though I am her legs and doing all the hard work pushing from behind, Harriette always manages to beat me to the finish line,” added Allan.