FOR MANY people, running the London marathon would be akin to a nightmare, but when Angela Bates takes to the streets this year she will be fulfilling her dream.
FOR MANY people, running the London marathon would be akin to a nightmare, but when Angela Bates takes to the streets this year she will be fulfilling her dream.
The 29-year-old was determined to take on the challenge before her 30th birthday but after failing to get a place for the last two years, time was running short.
However, this year was third time lucky and Miss Bates will be pounding the streets of London on April 22, 16 days before she turns 30.
Usually more comfortable playing her alto saxophone with the Suffolk Concert Band, Miss Bates decided to take up the challenge to raise money for St Elizabeth Hospice who cared for her dad Mervyn who died from a brain tumour when she was 16 years old. He was 43 when he died.
She is hoping to raise up to £1,500 for the hospice who she said offered such support to her, her mum and her two younger sisters Sarah and Alison.
Miss Bates, of Pipers Vale Close, Ipswich, said: “He was in the hospice for just over a week.
“When we went there it never seemed like a bad thing. They (the staff) were always really upbeat and happy and it was a nice place to go to.
“Running the marathon is a massive commitment and it is all you think about. Trying to raise the money as well is the hardest thing.”
To support her in her challenge, the band is putting on two spring concerts at Holy Trinity Church, Back Hamlet, Ipswich, in March and April, both in aid of the hospice.
The first concert is to be held on Wednesday, March 21, and the second is on Wednesday, April 25. The concerts start at 8pm. Entry is free and there will be a collection.
Miss Bates said: “My fellow band members have been very generous and I hope other people in the town will sponsor me if they can.
“Even a few pounds will make a huge difference and mean St Elizabeth Hospice can continue their invaluable work providing free palliative care to people with incurable illnesses and their families.”
n You can sponsor Angela by calling 07801 892713 or by visiting her online fundraising page at www.justgiving.com/angelabates
N Are you running the marathon this year? Contact the Star news desk on 01473 324788 or e-mail starnews@eveningstar.co.uk
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