A Pembrokeshire leisure centre worker, who embarked on a gruelling running challenge earlier this year, is joining forces with some very special Pembrokeshire youngsters.
Dan Mumford, Duty Officer at Tenby Leisure Centre, set out to run at least 2,015 miles in 2015 for charity in January.
With the support of family and friends, Dan aims to tot up the mileage in a series of gruelling distance events spread across the course of the year.
He has already completed an ultra marathon – 40 miles – in Llanelli and the Greater Manchester marathon – all in aid of local mental health charity, Pembrokeshire Mind.
Now he is joining forces with youngsters at the Autism Centre in Pembroke School for a somewhat shorter running challenge.
On Friday May 1st the youngsters – and Dan- will be embarking on a one mile Fun Run and/or walk at the centre.
The children are raising sponsorship for their challenge with all money raised also going towards Mind Pembrokeshire.
“I’m on course for meeting my running target but am only too happy to take a break from the longer distances and join these youngsters on their Fun Run,” said Dan.
“Mental health conditions are very common in people with Autism so it’s great that we can all get together to raise funds for such a worthwhile charity.”
Claire Bullock from Pembroke School said, ‘It’s great that Dan is raising awareness of the positive impact that exercise can have on mental health and anxiety.
“At the Autism Centre, pupils access the gym, have yoga sessions and get out running with many reporting that they feel calmer and more relaxed. We all wish Dan the best of luck with his challenge.’
After joining the youngsters on their Fun Run, Dan Mumford will be gearing up for some more half marathons, as well as the Wales Marathon, as he gets nearer his 2015 mile target.
The 31year-old from Carew, who suffered from depression two years ago, said running had helped him with his own health problems and he wanted to spread the message about how beneficial it could be.
“I run for my own mental health and it’s part of the reason why I have embarked on my project,” he said. “I also want to encourage others to get active.”
For more information about Mumford & Runs log onto www.facebook/mumfordruns
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