A KIND-HEARTED Malvern Hills District Council refuse worker is preparing to swap rubbish for running to raise money for a charity close to his heart.
Tim Lewis, a development and support officer in the council’s refuse and recycling team, will take part in the famous Great North Run on Sunday, September 11 in aid of Parkinson’s UK.
Mr Lewis has entered the 13.1 mile race through Newcastle in support of his mother, who was diagnosed with the condition in 2013.
He has seen first-hand the dramatic psychological and physical impact it has had on her and every hour in the UK, someone is told they have the disease.
Parkinson’s UK provides support and works to improve care, treatments and the quality of life for people with the condition, as well as influence and fund research into the development of new and better treatments.
Mr Lewis said: “I’m really excited and nervous at the same time to be taking part in the famous race. I’ve been training since January around Worcester and Malvern, so the feeling when crossing the finish line after having put in so much effort will be incredible.
“My wife is coming up to watch me and she’ll be heavily pregnant by the time of the race, so it’s a great commitment. My mother also wants to come but does not feel capable which is a real shame, but her inspiration will spur me on massively.
“Parkinson’s UK is fully dependent on donations and could not do the fantastic work they do without them, so I hope to raise as much as possible for this worthy cause.”
Coun Phil Grove, leader of Malvern Hills District Council added: “The Great North Run is such an impressive race and we’re really proud Tim is taking part in the challenge, especially considering the reason behind his fund-raising. We wish him all the very best of luck.”
Visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/TimLewis85 to sponsor Mr Lewis or visit www.parkinsons.org.uk for more information on the disease.
