Runners go the distance

Tadcaster Harriers members Laura Macaulay and Sarah Cairns pounded the roads from Bramham to the brewery town to raise over £1,170 for the British Lung Foundation (BLF) in memory of their fathers who died from lung conditions in 2019.

Laura said: “My mum and family supported me pretty much the whole way around and I know that my Dad was watching over me chuckling at how mad I am for taking on these challenges.”

Not only did Sarah and Laura run their half marathon, with their BLF balloons in tow, the club also held an online quiz to raise funds.

Harriers members were also challenged to see how many miles they could clock up in runs between Friday November 27 and Sunday 29 wearing red, the BLF colour.

This meant that everyone could feel involved despite not actually being able to run with the duo because of lockdown restrictions.

The club members amassed a 458 miles between them.

Sarah added: “It was wonderful how much support we received from people as we ran with our balloons bobbing along behind us.

“It was also poignant that my Mum, who is in our bubble, was able to see me run as over the years, due to caring for my Dad, she hasn’t been able to.”

She added: “All the money goes to the British Lung Foundation , an amazing little charity which is a partnership with Asthma UK, who are very close to our hearts due to both our Dads dying from lung disease last year.

“The BLF have seen their ability to fundraise devastated by COVID-19, at a time when demand for their services has significantly risen.”

Donations can be made at: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/sarah-cairns8 and www.justgiving.com/fundraising/lauramacaulay40