Hartlepool fundraisers step up for Miles for Men day with a difference due to virus

The annual Miles for Men fun run sees thousands of men, women and children line up to take part in the 5km race raising considerable funds for the charity and the town’s sport and community clubs.

But sadly this year’s event had to be cancelled due to the coronavirus outbreak and social distancing restrictions.

Determined not to let the day pass unnoticed, the team organised a more relaxed and low-key event to quell disappointment that the popular race could not go ahead.

People have been encouraged to take on the 5km race individually, or in small groups, with local sports clubs completing their own challenges.

On Sunday, August 2 – the day the race should have taken place - a number of people gathered at The Mayfair Centre at Seaton Carew for a family fun day.

A bouncy castle and children’s magic show were donated to entertain the youngsters, with a raffle, tombola and bucket collections to help raise funds.

Inspirational Hartlepool youngster Dottie O'Keefe, who has cerebral palsy, was among those who stepped out to show her support.

There were between 40 and 60 people who attended the event.

Meanwhile Miles for Men founder, Micky Day was unable to make the event as he tackled a 22 mile charity walk from Whitby to Saltburn.

His partner Kelly Pearson said: "It’s normally our biggest fundraising event of the year, so obviously everyone was disappointed when we had to cancel it.

“We wanted to put something on to honour the day until we can get it back up and running again next year.

“We tried to make it the best of it that we could and it’s been a successful day.”

She added: “We just want to say a massive thank you to the town for sticking with us and continuing to support us during such difficult times.

“We have taken quite a big hit, as everybody has and even though we have chosen not to ask people for donations then have been coming in tenfold.

“Without them we couldn’t do what we do.”

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