Rotherham’s incoming Deputy Mayor put his best foot forward for Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice by taking on the gruelling Rotherham 10k.

Joined by his wife Tracy Taylor and friends Jamie Turner and James Mault, the group were spurred on by the ‘immense support’ of all those who backed their efforts. The group smashed their £500 fundraising target, raising an impressive £1,337 including Gift Aid.

“I’d like to say a massive thank you to the organisers, sponsors, helpers and fantastic support at the Rotherham 10K this year,” said Councillor Taylor, who represents the Aughton and Swallownest ward.

“It was an absolute privilege to help raise funds along with my wife Tracy and Jamie and James for Bluebell Wood Children's Hospice. Rotherham, you did  us proud.”

While equally thankful of people’s generosity, co-runner and long-standing Bluebell Wood supporter Jamie Turner said the Rotherham 10k is not for the faint-hearted.

“We were all very keen to do something that benefits such a fantastic local charity while getting back into shape after the past couple of years,” said Jamie, a businessman from Dinnington.

“I didn’t run at all for a year so I’ve been slowly building myself up, either at the boxing gym or at Harthill Ponds.

“This obviously didn’t prepare me for the tough climbs. I thought it was game over for me as I approached the top of Herringthorpe. It was a 2.5k climb and I’ve honestly never been so exhausted in my life.

“The camaraderie was amazing though and the support of local people and businesses has been immense, so that really gives you that extra motivation when you need it the most.”

Bluebell Wood also benefited from the ‘Bag Drop’ at the Rotherham 10k, with the charity looking after runners’ belongings while they ground out the miles in return for a small donation.

Push yourself to the limit for Bluebell Wood

Jason Gossop, Regional Fundraiser for Bluebell Wood, said: “We’d like to say a huge thank you to Cllr Taylor, Tracy, Jamie and James for going above and beyond several daunting hills for Bluebell Wood!

“It’s a brilliant team effort and you should all be very proud of what you’ve achieved.

“We’d also like to say a big thank to the organisers of the Rotherham 10k for their support and for well and truly putting Rotherham on the running map. We’ll look forward to next year’s event and any many more to come.”