Making a 10k dash for charity cash

Mark Dobson, 57, from Garforth, says Wetherby in Support of the Elderly (WiSE) desperately needs more runners to help plug a fundraising shortfall.

The plea follows a year in which the charity has delivered unprecedented levels of support to older people across Wetherby and surrounding villages, but in which many supporters have had to cancel their usual fundraising activities.

Mark, Chief Operating Officer at WiSE, said: “The Wetherby 10k has been fantastic supporter of ours in the past, twice nominating WiSE as their official charitable beneficiary.

“This year I’m proud that my entry fee for the race will be put towards the Bone Cancer Trust, which is another fantastic cause.

“However, I’ll be also be asking friends and family to sponsor me to help raise funds for the charity which I run.”

He added: “We’re facing a funding shortfall, due to many of our usual fundraising events having to be suspended because of the pandemic.

“Our council funding allows us to deliver a basic level of provision to isolated, older people in desperate need of our help.

“But every single penny we raise beyond this means we can enhance our offering and do even more for older people in our community.”

The 16th Wetherby 10K takes place on Sunday 5 September. Organised by Wetherby Runners AC, the race is open to everyone from total beginners to elite athletes. Early release places are available at https://racebest.com/races/8wav5.

Wetherby in Support of the Elderly (WiSE) is a registered charity, part funded by Leeds City Council.

Its aim is to improve quality of life for the over 60s by providing community based activities, information, help and support.

It was recently presented with a special award by the Lord Mayor of Leeds Coun Eileen Taylor in recognition of its efforts during the pandemic so far.

To donate, visit https://w-ise.org.uk/donate/

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