Rhydycroesau Runners to run 2021 miles in 2021

Three runners from Rhydycroesau, Nick Blake, Alicia Shepherd and Tony Pepper have agreed to run 2021 miles, between them, this calendar year to raise money for a new initiative to support those diagnosed with Parkinson’s in the Wrexham, Shropshire and Montgomeryshire area.

A new group has been set up called “Parkinson’s in the Marches” by Elaine Payne, Simon Jackson supported by other volunteers. Initiatives will include offering one or more one-day seminars where health professionals and alternative therapists can get together with Parkinson’s sufferers. Also, it is hoped to offer grants to local Parkinson’s Groups to support group activities that they would not otherwise be able to afford.

Both Simon and Elaine were diagnosed with early onset Parkinson’s Disease a few years ago and are keen to provide support for those suffering from or those recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s in the local area to complement the excellent work undertaken by Parkinson’s UK.

Simon Jackson said ‘I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2015. I have since been involved in raising over £4,500 for Parkinson’s UK, most recently through my book “Walking from Home” describing twelve monthly walks from my home in the borders. At the heart of that project was the recognition that exercise is the best single thing one can do to slow the progress of the condition, so I was delighted when Tony, Alicia and Nick offered to take up this challenge to raise funds to make the event possible.’

Tony, Nick and Alicia are already clocking up the miles since January 1^st despite cold weather, snow and ice. Those of you familiar with the area, will know that Rhydycroesau is in “hill country” and there are not many flat runs!

You can support these three fantastic runners and the project they are running for via the “JustGiving” page at www.justgiving.co/crowdfunding/2021milesin2021.

Simon’s book is still available at the shop in Trefonen, Booka in Church Street, Oswestry or from the Facebook page @Walking from Home.

More information about the 1-day seminar as it unfolds once the Covid rules are relaxed can be found at the web site www.ParkinsonsintheMarches.co.uk and on Facebook @parkinsonsinthemarches.

Pictured: (L-R) Tony Pepper, Alicia Shepherd and Nick Blake.