Local lad laces up running shoes in aid of charity

Determined local lad Oliver Mortimer is running the London marathon to help raise funds for an appeal at Scunthorpe General Hospital.

Ollie (24), a keen runner from Scunthorpe, has decided to lace up his trainers and step out to raise funds for The Health Tree Foundation’s (HTF) maternity bereavement suite appeal.

It aims to raise £150,000 to provide a dedicated bereavement suite for parents who lose a baby.

Ollie heard about the appeal after a friend’s daughters baby died. When he secured a place in the marathon, which is being held on April 28, he decided to raise cash for his local hospital.

Ollie said: “I wanted to help out and do my bit for the charity and the appeal as the help, support and care the hospital gave to a good friend of mine and her family was truly inspirational. As soon as I heard about the appeal, I wanted to give something back and to make a difference to help such an amazing cause.”

To help Ollie prepare for the event he is undergoing a strict training resume to make sure his body is ready for the grueling 26.2 miles.

He added: “I am doing a number of races throughout the months leading up to the big one which will give me a good range of distances, courses and challenges to help me develop and be ready for the event.

“It will be my first time running the London marathon so a big part of me doesn't know what to expect, but I am looking forward to it.”

HTF community champion Hayley Thompson said: “We are so grateful to Ollie for helping to raise money for the appeal. I want to wish him the best of luck with the marathon and the fundraising.”

If you would like to support Ollie in his fundraising efforts please visit: https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-display/showROFundraiserPage?pageId=1003275

For more information about HTF, please contact community champion Hayley Thompson on 03033 305672 or email hayley.thompson3@nhs.net