Member Article

Training underway as Sheffield man prepares for London Marathon

After a 12 month break from running following a serious back injury, Sheffield man Dave Hancock is putting his trainers back on and taking part in this year’s London Marathon next month! He will undertake the gruelling 26.2m challenge in aid of the automotive not-for-profit organisation, Ben, which helped him through one of the most difficult periods of his life.

Dave, who works for JCT600 and is currently a warranty advisor at its Sheffield Volkswagen dealership, will embark on the daunting feat in a bid to raise funds for Ben which provides support, advice and guidance to those in the automotive industry who have suffered from long term illness or serious injury. He benefitted from the charity’s vital, life-changing support first hand when he was unable to work for an extended period of time following a serious back injury in 2016, which resulted in him facing further physical and mental struggles.

Last December, Dave spoke of his experiences at the charity’s flagship event, the Ben Ball in London, taking to the stage in front of hundreds of guests to praise the people at Ben who had supported him and given him direction through his ordeal. He also announced his plan to run in the Virgin Money London Marathon on 22nd April to raise funds for the charity.

Dave explains: “I feel I need to give something back to Ben. Running the London Marathon is going to be a massive challenge, especially due to my inactivity following my injury. I have been there before having taken part in the London Marathon twice in the past, so I know how extremely tough it is, but I want to raise awareness of the support services on offer that Ben has given to me.

“I’m quarter of the way to achieving my fundraising target and really appreciate the donations I’ve received so far which will enable Ben to help so many more people who are suffering with similar issues and are either afraid to turn to someone or just don’t know they are there. A big thank you to my colleagues at JCT600, my family and friends for all their support.”

Dave, who is aiming to raise £2,000 for Ben, has his training programme well underway - having already achieved his target of running 15m before the end of February, he will continue building his distance as his marathon challenge approaches.

To support Dave, visit https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/DaveHancock66

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Emma Kilmurray .