Hartlepool charity reaches an amazing milestone - and its founder reveals his big wish before he dies

Miles for Men reached a special moment this week when it passed more than £400,000 donated to worthy causes and people since it was first set up in 2012.

The man who started Miles for Men, Micky Day, said: “It is overwhelming to achieve this.

“I have always said it, the people of Hartlepool are amazing. They have taken Miles for Men and Walk for Women to their hearts.”

He also praised the Hartlepool Mail and said: “You have been there for us from the start.”

It all started in 2012 when Micky founded the 5k run in memory of his father Michael Day senior, who died aged 68 after a one-year battle with throat cancer.

Micky said: “We hoped we would raise £5,000 for Cancer Research and never thought it would turn into this.”

That first run attracted 1,000 runners and raised more than £40,000. There has been no stopping the town charity ever since.

“We have donated countless wheelchairs and stair lifts. We have supported local people. The list goes on,” said Micky.

Miles for Men has helped people affected by cancer to have their wedding dreams come true. It has helped children to enjoy special days out and adults to have much-needed support when they have needed it the most.

It also now has its charity shop, The Extra Mile, in the Middleton Grange Shopping Centre in Hartlepool.

And just weeks ago, it launched a new service called Minds For Men to help people with all of their mental health needs.

Micky added: “The support has been amazing and we can not thank everyone enough.”

The pandemic put a halt to this year’s Miles for Men and Walk for Women day which would have been held on August 2.

Micky said: “We had contacted companies which were coming back on board as sponsors. We had paid insurances for it but Covid-19 kicked in and stopped everything. Our biggest event was cancelled and it was heartbreaking. That would have meant a lot to Hartlepool people and we are gutted that people will miss out.”

But he added: “It will be back next year and hopefully bigger and better.”

He also revealed his hopes for the future of the charity and said: “It is my dream that, before I pass away, we donate £1million and I would be over the moon if we reach that target.”

To support the charity, visit the Miles for Men Facebook page.

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