Caring duo ran to raise charity cash

Jamie Gilliver, who works at the Brimington food store in Chesterfield, and Chris Page, who works as a project delivery manager for the society, joined thousands of other runners as part of the Virgin Money London Marathon on April 23.

Jamie, a customer services assistant, raised more than £2,500 for the society’s corporate charity Newlife – The Charity for Disabled Children.

Jamie, who lives in Dronfield with his girlfriend, said: “The experience was amazing, one of the best things I have ever done.

“My time was three hours 41 minutes and 35 seconds and I was extremely happy with that.

“I would like to say a big thank you to the team Brimington food store who helped me raise over half the funds as I couldn’t have done it without them.

“My mum also had many events at her sandwich shop, which was amazing and helped me get over £2,500.”

Chris, who is 35, finished the marathon in three hour, 21 minutes and 22 seconds and raised more than £2,000 for the same cause.

He said: “It was a great day for all of us involved from Central England Co-operative.

“Newlife is an amazing charity and I am extremely happy to be a part of helping it achieve its goals and improving the quality of life of so many children.”

Newlife is dedicated to providing information and practical support for children with disabilities and their families.

Although Newlife is a national charity, every penny raised by Central England Co-operative is helping children in the Midlands.

The link-up between The Co-op and Newlife has already raised more than £1.3 million so far.

Newlife head of community fundraising and appeals Nora Smith added: “Their combined support will make a significant impact on the lives of local disabled and terminally ill children in the Central England Co-operative trading area.

“t will provide vital equipment which will make a huge difference to their everyday life.”