Vale MP Alun Cairns is in training for the 2015 London Marathon as he aims to complete the course as the fastest MP and raise money for two local charities.
Mr Cairns will be running on April 26th to raise money for the Holton Road branch of the pet charity PDSA and Macmillan Cancer Support. The MP will be running the marathon just two weeks before the general election, and has been in training since Christmas to try and beat his previous time in 2014.
In Barry, the PDSA will benefit from the fundraising after Mr Cairns met with Barry resident Gail Smith and her dog ‘Champ’ who receives regular support for chronic diabetes. The charity provides support for pensioners and means tested pet care for families across the Vale of Glamorgan unable to use private veterinary care.
Gail Smith from Barry said: “I am really pleased that my local MP will be running the marathon in aid of the PDSA. The charity has helped my family and Champ so much, and I am so grateful for the work they do. I will be supporting Alun in April, and hope he finishes as the fastest MP again.”
Vale MP Alun Cairns said: “I am very excited to be running the marathon again this year, and the money I raise will go towards providing care for pets across Barry and the Vale for those who cannot access the veterinary system and much needed cancer support for MacMillan. It is no less daunting this year joining 30,000 other runners, but I am determined to do my best and raise as much money as I can for the two good causes.”
PDSA’s Challenge and Events Fundraiser Sarah Shelton said: “It’s wonderful that Alun is recognising the important work our vets and nurses carry out in the community by running for PDSA, and we’re very grateful for his support. Funds raised by Alun’s marathon efforts will help more local pets get the vet care they need and deserve.”
To sponsor Alun Cairns and support the PDSA and MacMillan Cancer Support, log onto http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/AlunCairnsMP
Donations and sponsorship forms can also be sent to Alun Cairns MP, 29 High Street, Barry, CF62 7EB.