Buxton PCs’ 250-mile run to remember

Buxton PCs John Owen and Caroline Simcock who are taking part in a Run to Remember for charity, in memory of Fiona Bone and Nicola Hughes.

Caroline Simcock and John Owen started the Run to Remember in December, running an average of two miles a day, and completed the challenge on Friday.

Together they raised more than £900 for the Nicola Hughes Memorial Fund, named after the 23-year-old PC, of Oldham, who was fatally injured in a gun and grenade attack alongside her colleague Fiona Bone, as they investigated a hoax burglary in Tameside.

The funds raised by the constables, who are taking part in the sponsored run alongside with officers from forces around the country, will go to Victim Support, Care of Police Survivors and North West Police Benevolent Fund.

Caroline said: “I’m really pleased, it’s more than I thought I would raise. We were all asked to raise a £100. Both my sons’ schools St Thomas More’s and St Anne’s made donations and my sister’s work.

“Last week, I was telling someone at a table top sale what I was doing and lady who’d overheard came up and gave me £5. It’s little things like that, it’s been dead nice.

“I found it very hard. I mean I did it, I’ve done the miles, but I struggled. It was hard to find the time everyday wit a full time job and a family. I did most of the miles in the gym because of the bad weather. Every run was tough; I’m glad it’s over.”

“I don’t think I’ll ever run again; I’m burning my trainers!” she joked. “No, I’ll continue going to the gym but it’ll be nice to have the pressure off.”

John said: “It was hell. The only challenge I would ever consider doing again would be Man vs Food!”

They both added they would like to thank everyone for their support.

To make a donation, visit Caroline’s sponsorship page at justgiving.com/Caroline-Simcock.