THREE runners took part in the Wilmslow Half Marathon to raise money for Hale-based charity the Fed on March 23.

The race saw 4,500 people run the 13.5 mile course.

The three competitors, Lucy Barnett, Kate Rowlands and Paul Kramrisch, were sponsored by family and friends to undertake the half marathon and to raise money for The Fed’s Project Smile, which provides one-to-one respite care for children with special needs, children in need and their families.

Runner Lucy Barnett said: “Working as a personal trainer and having completed the half marathon last year, I wanted to train and support my client, Kate, with her first half marathon. We trained together and my aim was to motivate Kate to achieve something for a worthwhile cause.

“We were thrilled to know that we’ve raised money that will help to run Project Smile’s services - it’s a scheme that’s very close to my heart as I used to work there and have seen first-hand how it helps families in need.”

This was the first half-marathon for Paul Kramrisch who completed the course in 1hr 52m.

“I was very happy with my time. I really wanted to break the two hour barrier.

“In the past, I’ve raised money for cancer charities such as Macmillan and Sarcoma UK as my wife passed away from cancer nearly four years ago.

“This time it was important to me to raise money for Project Smile. They were invaluable in providing help and support to me and my two children during my wife’s long illness.

“It’s fair to say that we couldn’t have managed as well as we did without their help.

I’m positive that every penny I raise will be put to good use in helping bring a little happiness and stability to the lives of the children that need it most.”

Anyone wishing to support the Fed through any type of fundraising challenge should contact Amanda Zatman on 0161 772 4967 or at amanda.z@thefed.org.uk.

If you or someone you know needs support from Project smile or any other Fed service please call 0161 772 4800 or email sue.l@thefed.org.uk.