Running the London Marathon even once is an achievement, particularly when it raises much needed funds for charity. For Paul Jenkins of Bournemouth, it’s really more of a habit. Next weekend (April 21) he’ll be heading up to the capital to tackle his 33rd London Marathon and he’s already raised over £1900 for his favourite charity, Children’s Liver Disease Foundation (CLDF).
“I’ve always loved running“ says Paul 77, a retired naval rating. “And when I found out about the work of Children’s Liver Disease Foundation some years ago, I decided to channel my passion into raising funds for a little known but hard working charity who would really benefit from my support!”
Paul met his wife Liz while he was in the Navy as she was a Wren. She has run many marathons with him – they even celebrated their Golden Wedding anniversary by running the London Marathon together! And although Liz doesn’t take on marathons any more, she still enjoys running and helps Paul with his fundraising.
“We organise raffles and events and the local community have given us great support. Everyone from Bournemouth FC to local shops and restaurants has got involved,” says Liz. “We find business are keen to support a smaller charity and of course it never hurts to have a bit of cheek – if you don’t ask, you don’t get!”
Over the years, Paul and Liz have raised over £48,000 for CLDF, a total they are hoping to build on next weekend.
“Training has been tough as I’m carrying a knee injury but I’ll be doing the Reading Half Marathon the week prior as a warm up,” says Paul. “I haven’t given myself a target time – as long as I complete it and justify the faith all these generous sponsors have in me, I’ll be happy!”
Michelle Wilkins, Head of Services at Children’s Liver Disease Foundation commented: “CLDF is dedicated to fighting all childhood liver diseases, by providing information and emotional support, funds for research and a voice for all those affected. We couldn’t do what we do without our supporters and Paul is a very special supporter.
“Running one marathon is a great achievement but to do this many is just amazing. It’s not just his fitness we admire – it’s the tireless fundraising which he and Liz do for us. I know they have a fantastic community around them in Bournemouth and we are so grateful to them. Every penny they raise is making a difference to young people around the UK who have liver disease. We hope that Paul thoroughly enjoys his 33rd marathon and we’ll be there to cheer him on!”
You can support Paul’s London Marathon challenge by going to Liz and Paul Jenkins is fundraising for Children’s Liver Disease Foundation (justgiving.com)
