A PAIR of fitness fanatics put their running shoes on for 5k every day for a month to raise funds for young homeless people.
Ben Sharp and Oliver Dolman ran over 150k in April in aid of St Basils, which helps young people who are homeless.
Oliver, who lives in Solihull, started running during the third national lockdown, which began in January, in a bid to become more healthy.
After two months he noticed housing development company Keon Homes, where he works, had donation money to St Basils and he wanted to do more to help in the fight against youth homelessness.
He said: “It got me to thinking that I could use my running to help St Basils and do a hard month of fundraising on behalf of Keon Homes.
“I got in contact with Richard and Warren regarding my idea of running 5km per day for a total of 150km from April 1 to 30 and they of course welcomed it.”
He put the idea to his colleague Ben, from Shrewsbury, who eagerly accepted the challenge.
The duo set out to raise £1,000 – but thanks to generous contractors, supply chain consultants and the Sweeney foundation they smashed their target and have raised £5,080 so far.
Oliver said: “The support we have received has been remarkable and has been the motivation for this tough month.
“This money is going to provide vital support for these poor young people suffering from threat of homelessness and I am truly grateful for everybody who has helped to make this happen.
“I would like to say a final thank you to everybody who has supported us on this fundraiser and on behalf of Keon Homes we wish you all good health.”
Barrie Hodge, head of fundraising at St Basils, said. “I’m in awe of this.
“We get people doing all sorts of wonderful and amazing challenges to raise money for our cause, but this really is a step beyond.
“We cannot thank Ben, Oliver and all at Keon Homes enough for this amazing support. Enjoy the recovery, we think you’ve earned it.”
For more or to donate visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/keonhomes
