RETIRED doctor Dick McPherson is still on top form at the age of 68 and is preparing for his most challenging fundraising event yet - running the London Marathon.
The event, which is due to take place on April 22nd, will see Dr McPherson take his place at the starting line along with thousands of other runners. Dr McPherson is hoping to run the 26 miles to raise funds for the Monmouth Aid Project, which supports a town community in Ethiopia called Waka. He said: "Without our fundraising, these people in Waka would receive very little or even no help at all."
The doctor is determined to see the race through but has admitted that he is finding it increasingly difficult to get past the half-marathon mark in his training sessions. He said: "I used to be a cross country runner in my youth, but these days everything aches so much more than it used to! However, my distances are improving slowly so hopefully I will be on top form come April."
The London Marathon will be the Monmouth Aid Project's main fundraising venture this year. Dr McPherson has already raised £1,000 to secure himself a place in the event and is hoping to raise even more by April. He said: "I really do think it's for a marvellous cause. People in countries like Ethiopia really need our support."
Anyone who would like to sponsor Dr McPherson can write to Orchard Cottage, Maypole, Monmouth or telephone 01600 712996.
Ele Yearsley