An East Lancs woman who has been fundraising for the Blue Cross animal charity by taking on this year’s London Marathon says she has been humbled by the support so far.
Clare Wade, 47, has rehomed six horses from Blue Cross to her small holding in Rossendale, where she also keeps goats and chickens.
To help raise money for the charity, Clare, who has run half-marathons and competed in triathlon events in the past, decided to tackle the London Marathon.
READ MORE: 'Farmfest' to raise money for woman running London Marathon in aid of Blue Cross
Her fundraising will also be aided by hosting ‘Farmfest’ on her animal holding, where people will be able to come and have a look at the animals, hear about their stories, take part in activities, and buy merchandise.
Clare said: “The training is going really well. I’m injury free, which is fantastic.
"I’m building up the miles, so this year I’m going to be doing half-marathon distance to continue to build up the mileage.
“I have just tipped over a quarter of what I’m looking for. I’m trying to raise £2,000 and it’s just tipped over the £500 mark this week, which is really good.
“It’s difficult at the moment with the cost of living, but I’m really hopeful that we can push on and get that amount ticking up a little bit more.
“People have been so generous. Because we’ve done promotion to people who don’t know us, it’s really humbling when you see people who don’t know you take the time to click on the link and donate.
“I am really grateful, it helps motivate me and it’s really humbling.”
The Farmfest event will take place over the weekend of April 1 and 2, prior to the marathon later in the month on April 23.
People will have the chance to learn about the animals and the work that Clare does rehoming them, and there will be kids activities such as pin the tail on the donkey, a quiz, guess the weight of the biggest chicken, and guess the name of the smallest chicken.
All the money raised over the weekend will go towards the sponsorship fund for the Blue Cross.
Due to restricted parking in the area, anyone wishing to attend is encourage to email Clare on clarewade15@sky.com to secure a parking spot.
To donate to the fundraising page, click here.
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