A RUNNER is tackling a new challenge to support a cause close to her heart.
Jill Kerr is competing in the TCS London Marathon on Sunday, October 2.
It will be the first time she has tried to complete 26.2 miles as she joins 50,000 competitors from all over the world.
The Northwich mum-of-two is raising funds for Phab, which encourages disabled and non-disabled people of all ages to come together and have fun.
“It is a fantastic charity,” said Jill, who works for the Blue Diamond Group of Garden Centres at Fryers Garden Centre in Knutsford.
“They put aside disability and do a lot of great activities to help with confidence.
“Pushing the boundaries, it helps many young people do things they didn’t think they could achieve.”
Phab is celebrating its 65th anniversary this year and runs more than 120 clubs across the country.
As part of her job as roses and events manager, Jill helped to launch a new rose called the Phab gold rose, with £1 from every sale being donated to the charity.
“It’s a lovely vibrant yellow rose,” said Jill, from Kingsmead, who has raised almost £2,000 for Phab, thanks to a generous donation from Blue Diamond.
She also organised a charity disco and raffle at Oaklands Hotel in Weaverham to boost her funds, with support from family and friendds.
Jill, a member of Northwich Running Club, completed the Royal Parks Half Marathon in London for Phab.
“I’ve been running by myself and eating a lot of carbs, like apple crumbles, as you burn off so many calories,” said Jill.
“We’re a very sporty family. One of my daughters is a keen horse rider and the other one is a keen dancer. They both go sailing.
“My husband runs as well. He recently completed the sandstone trail in a good time.”
The whole family is travelling to the capital to cheer her on.
“I signed up for the London Marathon three years ago so it seems surreal that I will finally be doing it on Sunday,” said Jill, who wants to thank everyone who has supported her and donated.
“Everyone tells me there is a brilliant atmosphere and to just enjoy it.
"As the day gets nearer I'm getting more nervous and less excited.
“I just hope to get to the end and not get overtaken by a giant rhino!”
For more information about Phab visit phab.org.uk
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here