2019-08-28 09:21:33
A man from Maldon will be putting his best foot forward next month as he takes on his fifteenth challenge event in four years, this time raising money for his local learning disability service.
Paul Foster is set to take on the Great North Run on 8 September to raise money for Hft, who support adults with learning disabilities to live the best life possible.
The 57 year old sport enthusiast already has a string of fundraising challenges under his belt, having completed cycling race RideLondon earlier this year and the London Marathon four times previously. He was inspired to raise funds for Hft after looking for a local charity where he could make a real difference and discovering Hft’s Bishop’s Stortford service, which supports over 20 adults with learning disabilities and provides services ranging from supported living to day opportunities.
The Great North Run marks another bucket list challenge ticked off for the fitness fanatic, who was previously an army reserve officer and now works as a manager for a financial ombudsman service in London. He will be joining 57,000 other runners in the 13.1 mile route, which spans from Newcastle city centre all the way to the coast in South Shields, and passes along famous landmarks including the Tyne Bridge.
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Ahead of the event, Paul is running almost every day and even took on the Isle of Wight Challenge earlier this year, which helped to prepare him for the challenge ahead. He’s also been busy fundraising and has recently received a generous donation from his local Freemasons’ lodge, as well as raising money at work by running a competition to guess how long he finishes the race after fellow runner and Olympic star Mo Farah.
Paul Foster said:
“I’m really excited to be tackling the Great North Run. I’ve never done this challenge before and can’t wait to enjoy the atmosphere and aim for a good finish time, all while raising important funds for a charity that makes such a positive impact to local people with learning disabilities.”
Emma Macdonald, Sports and Challenge Events Manager, said:
“Everyone has the right to live the life they choose, and people with learning disabilities are no exception. With the support of people like Paul, we can support people in all areas of their life, from developing practical skills to connecting them to their community.
“We’re wishing Paul and everyone else taking part for Hft the very best of luck.”
To make a donation, visit Paul’s fundraising page on: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/paul-foster62
Notes to editors
For further information please email media.enquiries@hft.org.uk
About Hft
Proudly established in 1962 by a group of visionary parents, Hft is a charity supporting more than 2,500 learning disabled adults in England and Wales. Together, we are creating a future where learning disabled people and their families can live the best life possible.
Providing personalised support. Creating solutions for living independently. Coming together to campaign for positive change. Fundraising for new opportunities and a bigger impact.
In 2033, we’ll live in a world where learning disabled people have greater choice. About where they live. The support they need and want. And how to spend their time and money.
Learning disability versus difficulty
A learning disability is different from a learning difficulty but the terms are often confused and used inter-changeably. A learning difficulty does not affect general intellect, whereas a learning disability is a life-long condition characterised by a reduced intellectual ability and struggle with everyday activities.
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For more information about Hft please visit www.hft.org.uk
Location: Hft Hertfordshire & Essex
