Comedian Jimmy Cricket has visited the start and finish location for the charity fun run which will mark his 70th birthday.
The well-known entertainer went to see the Cock & Magpie pub in Whitworth, where the runners will set off on the morning of 18 October for a 5K race in aid of his preferred charity, the Francis House Children’s Hospice in Manchester.
Belfast-born and Rochdale-based Jimmy will be on hand to wave off the runners and to meet them when they return.
The race is being organised by local race organiser Andy O’Sullivan who has plotted out a 5K course that takes in the breath-taking scenery around Cowm Reservoir – the race will involve two laps of this magnificent beauty spot.
With just four months to go, Jimmy met Andy and also Chris, who is the landlord of the Cock & Magpie on Tonge Lane End. Jimmy then met some runners (above) who are hoping to participate in the event.
Andy said: “It was great for Jimmy to visit the location I’ve chosen for his race. I am just thrilled this event is taking shape and the run will just be a nice way to mark this great man’s contribution to Rochdale, while raising a few quid for such a worthy cause as Francis House.”
Jimmy said: “I am thrilled to be marking my birthday in such a fantastic way. It is amazing what can come out of taking a walk into Healey Dell Nature Reserve and bumping into Andy O’Sullivan!
“But seriously, this idea has been in the pipeline for around a year and I am pleased we are at that point where the event is not too far away.
“Even if you are not a dedicated runner, come along and enjoy a leisurely jog around a course which is stunning. Better still, why not come along as a spectator and support all the runners, as in this way you can still contribute to the event and help us raise lots of money!”
David Ireland, chief executive at Francis House, said: “Jimmy has supported Francis House over many years and helped raise thousands of pounds towards the care we provide to sick children, young people and their families.
“We’d like to express our grateful thanks to Jimmy, Andy and the team at the Cock and Magpie for organising the fun run. We hope lots of people will take part, enjoy the day and show their support.”
The entry fee to join Jimmy on this fun race is £4 to club runners and £6 to all others. An additional £1 will be charged to entrants who turn up on the day. Prizes will be awarded to all race finishers.
For more information and for a copy of the entry form, please contact Andy O’Sullivan at info@andemsrunners.co.uk
Or you can download the form above right by clicking on it, so it is on its own page, and then printing out (right click and print, or press “Ctrl” and “P”).
I will be there on the day.this is a challenge to me and will be a great achievement in my quest to get fit. Up to now i have £130 in sponsorship