Hatton Park man completes festive fundraising challenge

A Hatton Park resident had completed his festive fundraising challenge for a cause close to his heart.

Gareth Powell took on the challenge of running seven miles every day for seven days to raise money for the Motor Neurone Disease Association.

He kicked off his running on December 18 and completed his seventh and final run on Christmas Eve.

Gareth said: "It feels good to have completed the challenge.

"Legs and ankles are sore but overall a good feeling of well-being - probably from not having a beer for a over a week."

Many residents in Hatton Park may know Gareth and his family for having the 'Homer house' as every year they put up an inflatable festive Homer Simpson.

Throughout his runs Gareth dressed up as Santa and sometimes as Homer Simpson.

Gareth added: "I found it fun on the first couple of days.

"I enjoyed the look on kids faces as they thought they were waving to Santa running passed but then couldn't figure out the yellow face.

"The early starts were tough and oh the rain. Why does it always rain on me?"

Gareth decided to take on the challenge for Motor Neurone Disease Association after his brother Rich was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease earlier this year.

His initial fundraising target was he £777 but this was surpassed in the first 48 hours and now Gareth has raised more than £2,500.

He said: "I am well chuffed. A herculean effort from the donators.

"I would like to thank everyone who has donated. It's an expensive time of year and a very difficult year, so thanks to you all."

To donate go to: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/gareth-powell13