New running fan sets sizzling pace
SPORTS-MAD Thomas New turned his new-found passion for running into a fundraiser for St Ann’s Hospice.
Even one lap of a running track used to be a struggle for Thomas, who ran 5k in the Sale Sizzler at Wythenshawe Park.
He was joined by mum Lucinda, brother Daniel and sister Isabelle, with dad David cheering them on.
Thomas, from Sale, raised £721 for St Ann’s, which is one of the oldest and largest hospices in the UK and is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.
Lucinda said: “The race was a huge achievement for Thomas who pretty much hated running and couldn’t go far without stopping.
“I think he’s now found his inner runner and really likes it.
“He’s always been very fit and enjoyed any exercise involving the gym, as well as swimming, tennis and football, but during lockdown all those things stopped because he was shielding. ●●ST ANN’S Hospice has supported countless families across Stockport and beyond for half a century.
In its 50th anniversary year, the Stockport Express is carrying
“His life had become very small and he was stuck in the house, so it was good to get out again and do something.
“The rest of us run and it’s something Thomas can now do with his family.”
Thomas’ parents are both consultants at Salford Royal Hospital.
Lucinda said: “We have patients who go to St Ann’s for end-of-life care and regular features looking at the work and impact of this much-loved hospice that is one of the oldest in the UK. It operates sites in Heald Green, Little Hulton, and the Neil Cliffe Centre at Wythenshawe medics who train there, so I’ve been aware of the hospice for a long time, but had never been for a visit until we presented the cheque.”
Thomas (19) may now switch his sights to a 10k event next year.
Rachel McMillan, chief executive of the hospice, said: “Huge thanks to Thomas and his family for taking on this brilliant challenge to raise money for the
Hospital, and has plans for a new hospice building in Heald Green. The hospice is supported by a team of more than 350 staff and 700 volunteers.
Alongside its clinical hospice. We’re so grateful.
“We can’t thank Thomas enough and everyone who organises a run, bucket collection or event in their community to raise money for the hospice.”
If you’d like to organise your own event or take on a fundraising challenge to support your local charity, then visit www.sah.org.uk/ fundraising or call 0161 498 3631 services, it has online and high street shops, as well as a lottery. To mark its 50th anniversary, the hospice will be holding a wide range of activities and events to celebrate this important milestone.