Marathon endeavour will make miles of difference

THE Samaritans are calling for people to take on a Samarathon to raise vital funds.

The Rochdale, Oldham and District branch of the charity is inviting supporters to run, jog or walk a marathon in their own time and at their own pace to fundraise for it.

They say it will help focus on keeping fit to promote positive mental wellbeing and coincide with Mental Health Awareness Week.

The branch wants to motivate more people to get active to improve their mental wellbeing, rather than focus on a single physical endurance challenge that requires participants to run 26.2 miles in one stretch.

Branch director Moyra Purves said: “While we don’t know how long we’ll be observing social distancing and Government guidance on daily exercise, this is a challenge you can do on your own, with members of your household, or join with friends, family and workmates virtually, supporting each other’s progress wherever you are.

“Now more than ever we know getting active works wonders for your mental wellbeing.

“Samarathon is a great goal to motivate people to go at that their own pace.

“Whatever your age or ability, it’s a challenge to do in your time, at your pace, wherever you live or work. This fitnessfundraising initiative is focused on feeling good.

“We hope supporters will encourage their friends and family of all ages to take part as it’s an achievable challenge they can share and enjoy.”

She added: “In this current climate we really need the public’s continued support. Due to the cancellation of many of our fundraising events, we’re facing a significant loss of funding, so we’re urging the public to help us ensure that we continue to be here for anyone who needs support.

“It’s free to sign up to Samarathon, but we’d love for everyone to raise whatever they can to support their local branch of Samaritans and help us be there for anyone struggling to cope.”

Supporters can sign up for free at www. samaritans.org/ samarathon to take part in the challenge.

With this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week’s theme being ‘kindness,’ Samaritans is calling on people to be kind to themselves, to get active and boost their wellbeing, as well as be kind enough to raise valuable funds to ensure Samaritans can deliver a critical service.

Anyone can contact Samaritans FREE any time from any phone on 116 123, even a mobile without credit. This number won’t show up on your phone bill.

Or you can email jo@ samaritans.org or visit www.samaritans.org.