A LOCAL auctioneer has raised thousands of pounds for good causes after completing the London Marathon.
Richard Winterton completed the 26.2-mile course in aid of Parkinson’s UK and We Love Lichfield.
The 60-year-old clocked up a time of 6:03:59 – and has so far raised more than £6,600 in donations plus upwards of £1,600 through Gift Aid.
He said:
“The noise of the crowds and the support the whole way round was just tremendous.
“I have to say it was extremely tough but that feeling of positivity and cheers from people lining the route really kept me going.
“Most important motivation was the two amazing organisations I was running for and doing my best on behalf of all those who kindly sponsored me.
“It was awe-inspiring meeting some of the Parkinson’s group there and just incredible to see the sheer number of charities involved.”
Another special moment was spotting family members watching out for him.
“Seeing my wife Jan, sons Tom, Ben, Harry and James and their partners gave me such a boost at 15 miles.
“My niece had been at London Bridge waving a sign saying ‘Uncle Richard’, my sister surprised me from the crowd, and then I had a message from Ben to say watch out for us again as you go round the corner at Big Ben. All this kept me going.
“There were children with sweets, placards everywhere, music and noise – just an incredible spectacle running through the heart of the capital and past iconic London landmarks.
“Thank you so much to everybody who came along on the day and everyone who has donated.
“What an experience, but never again – never, ever again.”
Richard’s London Marathon charities are close to both heart and home.
He said:
“My dad Tony is currently living with Parkinson’s and my father-in-law, Roy, sadly passed away three years ago after living with the condition for ten years.
“Parkinson’s affects thousands of people and their families across the UK and Parkinson’s UK provides vital support, funds research, and works towards better treatments – and ultimately a cure.
“We Love Lichfield has given away £462,000 in 500 awards to 237 charities, groups or projects across our district.
“One of The Community Foundation for Staffordshire and Shropshire’s place-based funds, it sees donations invested through an endowment fund, with the returns awarded to support local community and voluntary groups now and for future generations.”
Donations can still be made via www.justgiving.com/page/richard-winterton-1 for Parkinson’s UK and www.justgiving.com/page/richard-winterton-2 for We Love Lichfield.
