Doncaster group raises more than £1,000 for charity by running 10km

The group set out to raise money for the RBL’s annual Poppy Appeal on November 1 and ran 10km around Doncaster town centre – all while carrying heavy packs to make the challenge harder.

David Moores, from Hatfield, was one of the runners. He said: “We had a real sense of pride and achievement when we finished the race.

“We felt it was really important to raise money this year as the Poppy Appeal has struggled due to Covid-19.

“They haven’t been able to have people in super markets and less fundraising events have been able to go forward.”

Angie Clarke, Tracie Whyman, Claire Angus, Janet Powell, Darren Whyman and Dave Moores all took part in the fundraising race.

They trained for weeks before the event but unfortunately one of the runner’s tested positive for Covid-19, which meant that the whole team had to self isolate for two weeks.

On race day the group met at the Cenotaph at Bennetthorpe at 9.30am.

“The route led us past Cast Theatre, the Fish Bits chippy, and down past The Royal Mail collection office on Middle Bank,” said David.

“The weather was on our side and the sun was shining making it very sweaty work.”

David said that he was thankful that water stations for the runners had been set up at the Doncaster Rovers car boot sale by friends Kev and Jack Waugh.

The group made it back to the Cenotaph to a socially distant crowd cheering them on across the finish line.

Geoff Henshaw, whose father won a Distinguished Flying Medal in World War Two then laid down a wreath and ‘The Last Post’ was played.

A two minute silence was observed before celebratory photos were taken.

They managed to raise a total of £1,245 for the Poppy Appeal.

“We would like to thank anybody who donated to us,” David continued.

“From friends and family to those who put coins in the buckets on the day.

“It’s all going towards helping ex service personnel.”

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