A BOBBY who responds to 999 calls will be running to the assistance of another worthy cause later this month.
Sergeant Richie Watts, a Targeted Patrol Team officer who works in Ellesmere Port and Chester, will tackle the Great North Run for the 17th time on Sunday.
Last year, the super-fit cop completed the famous half marathon in 1hr 39min 46 sec, putting him in the top 10%.
He’s keen to notch up similar success this year when he steps out in aid of the Motor Neurone Disease Association.
He said: ‘I’m motivated to run for the charity by one my neighbours, who has the disease and has gone from being a fully active woman to being wheelchair bound within a couple of years.
‘Sufferers require round-the-clock support from their family and carers and the charity supports those who have the disease as well as researching its causes in an attempt to find a cure. Last year, I raised just under £1,500 for the charity and I’m hoping that this year will be similarly successful.’
The Great North Run begins at Newcastle-upon-Tyne and finishes 13.1 miles away in South Shields.
Sgt Watts is hoping to shave minutes from his completion time of last year and is aiming to finish in about 1hr 35min.
He added: ‘I know from experience the run is a tough one and there will no doubt be times when there’s temptation to give up but I know the thought of raising money for such a good cause will keep me going.’
People can make donations on line at www.justgiving.com/richiewatts, directly online via the Motor Neurone Disease Website, or via post by sending to Sgt Richie Watts, Targeted Patrol Team, Blacon Police Station, Blacon Avenue, Blacon, Chester CH1 5BD.
Also taking part in the Great North Run is 41-year-old Simon Kirkby from Great Sutton, who operates professional oven valeting business Ovenu on the Wirral and surrounding areas. He will be raising money for the Stroke Association and began training for the event in June.
