Marathon run in aid of animals
ANIMAL-LOVING athlete Mel Hill is to enter this year’s London Marathon to raise money for Leicester Animal Aid (LAA).
The 38-year-old former RSPCA worker hopes to raise at least £1,000 for the Huncote-based dog and cat rescue and rehoming charity by taking part in the high-profile run on April 22.
Before then, she will be holding a fundraising tombola stall for the cause in Hinckley’s Britannia Centre on Friday March 9 from 10am, where prizes will include her own hand-crafted origami flowers.
Currently unemployed, Mel, who owns five cats, heard about the work of LAA through her father-in-law who lives in Earl Shilton and went to see for herself.
She said: “It’s amazing what they do there, with no government funding.
“I love animals. I’ve never done anything for charity but I want to raise at least £1,000 and if I can raise more, that will be great.”
Mel is a member of Nuneaton Harriers running club and completed six halfmarathons last year, with a personal best time of 1hr 57mins.
Asked what time she is hoping to achieve in the marathon she said: “I’ve got a bit of a hamstring niggle at the moment so it’s just a case of completing it - even if I have to walk it.
“I’ve never done it before and the atmosphere is supposed to be amazing.
“I am looking forward to it but I’m a bit nervous too.”
Mel will be running for the LAA in a silver bond charity place.
To sponsor her attempt please visit her JustGiving page at www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/melanie-hill15