A Lytham man has come up with an innovative fundraiser to support his London Marathon efforts for us
Mark Selby, from Ansdell, has set up a virtual 5k challenge, with all proceeds coming to us.
The 40-year-old, who is in training for this year’s London Marathon, has designed a special Lytham Sportfest medal for everyone who takes part in the challenge.
All those wanting to have a go need do is sign up online, provide proof they’ve done the 5k and wait for the medal to drop onto their doormat. Entry to the event is just £5.
Be quick though, the closing date for entries is 28 February.
Mark said, “We’re challenging people to run their own race at their own pace."
Medal elves at work
“Our medal elves have been busy casting and making unique medals in two special finishes – antique gold and black nickel – and everyone who enters and provides proof they’ve completed the challenge will get one."
“We’ll accept most methods of proof – for example, an upload from a fitness app, a photo of the distance on your watch or a screenshot of a results page from a race or parkrun."
“Medals will be delivered once the deadline is reached, so you have time to get your 5k to us. We are also creating a leaderboard and may have some prizes available for the quickest times!"
“Set yourself a goal, get some lovely bling, and support Meningitis Now!”
You can sign up at http://lythamsportfestival.weebly.com/lytham-sportfest-virtual-5k.html.
In memory of Edward
Mark decided to take on the London Marathon to support his friend John Atkinson, who taught local youngster Edward Dee at Clifton Primary School. Edward sadly died from meningitis in December 2016 at the age of just 10. Since then his parents and the wider Lytham community have raised over £110,000 through the Edward Dee Forever Fund for us.
Mark, a marathon veteran, added, “Our local community was devastated when Edward lost his life to meningitis, and we were keen to do something to help fight back against this disease."
“Unfortunately, since then, John has found out he needs surgery so is deferring his marathon entry to 2020. I’m carrying on alone and training is going well.”
You can support Mark’s efforts at https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/MarkSelby4.
Kirsty Owen-Hayward, our Events Fundraiser at Meningitis Now, said, “What a fantastic way to fight back against meningitis and we wish Mark all the best for his London Marathon challenge."
“I’d encourage everyone to have a go at his 5k challenge – after all, who doesn’t love a bit of bling!”
