Marathon man Stuart runs up £1,770 for NHS

Stuart's 'presentation ceremony' after completing his marathon run

Stuart Mulrooney was overwhelmed with the response to his appeal for backing for his run beginning and ending at his Wesham home.

After initially setting a target of £50, he received donations totalling £1,771.

“It’s brilliant - I just can’t thank people enough, ” said Stuart, 37, who is JPI Media’s North West regional sales manager.

“I was delighted to get into the London Marathon at the first attempt and started training seriously in January, covering more and more distance every day and it was going well.

“Along with so many other events, it has been postponed because of the coronavirus outbreak but seeing as I have trained my backside off for the past four months through numerous storms and miserable weather, I thought I’d attempt to run one anyway and see if I can raise a small amount of money for the amazing doctors and nurses that are risking their lives everyday for us.”

Stuart, supported by his partner Natalie Middlesmas in a back-up vehicle, was delighted with his time of three hours 52 minutes and on arrival back home, to cheers from neighbours, there was even a ‘presentation ceremony’ to crown his achievement.

The run was relayed on Facebook Live for the benefit of Stuart’s parents Steve and Norma, who were due to be supporting his London run in aid of the Children With Cancer UK charity but are currently on lockdown in Spain.

“The support I got from everyone I passed on the circuit was wonderful,” said Stuart.

“When I turned back onto our estate for the finish, there was a big cheer from the neighbours and that meant a lot.

“I suppose I was lucky with the weather - it was a little cooler and there was less sun than the days either side, and that certainly worked in my favour.

“I am so grateful to have been able to do something to help the NHS - they are doing such great work during this pandemic.

“It’s nothing compared to what Captain Tom Moore has been doing at almost 100 years of age but it’s extra money in the pot for the incredible NHS and I can put all the training to good use."