Charities kept in running by funds
ORGANISERS of the Macclesfield Half Marathon have been handing out the funds raised by this year’s race.
At a presentation evening held at RedWillow, a bar on Park Green, Macclesfield Harriers’s Mandy Calvert handed out cheques to three chosen charities.
These were Cre8, who run activities for young people, youth support group Just Drop In, and the Rossendale Trust, who provide supported accommodation for adults with physical and learning disabilities.
Each were given £3,500 that was raised by the event and have thanked organisers. Karl Downing, from the Rossendale Trust said: “Three of our tenants ran, which was a particular highlight for me.
“The funds from this year’s event will enable us to continue to help people in the WorkTaste project, which supports people with learning disabilities to get a taste of work.”
Ann Wright, manager at Just Drop In, said: “One of the things I love about the Macc Half Marathon is the community feel.
“Many of our youngsters ran their first race at the event after completing a Couch to 5K course.
“The monies and the sponsorship raised on the day will help us run more courses like this, and keep our doors open to support young people in Macclesfield.” Youth worker Amy McFadden, from Cre8, added: “Our youngsters were so proud of themselves for doing the 5K, and to be sponsored to raise money for Cre8.”
The donation will enable Cre8 to take groups of young people on residential courses held on the Isle of Mull, off the coast of Scotland. Held in September, the Macclesfield Half Marathon also has a 5km race and a fun run.
More than 1,000 people took part and Steve Littler was the winner in a time of one hour, 16 minutes and 18 seconds.
Diane McVey was the fastest woman clocking one hour, 23 minutes and 26 seconds.
At the presentation Mandy thanked event sponsors, who included main sponsors Macclesfield Town Council and JJ Cooksons.
She said: “We all had a common aim – for the runners and spectators to have a great day, and to raise money for our three local charities.
“More than 150 volunteers give their time to make this a day to remember for all the runners and spectators, so thanks to all the helpers.”