Man behind redevelopment of Chesterfield building to run London Marathon for hospital

James Holmes is aiming to complete the 26.2-mile course on Sunday while carrying cuddly toy Theo the Bear on his back.

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He is running in aid of Sheffield Children’s Hospital as medical staff have provided treatment to both of his children.

And he has already had practice carrying the bear – the official mascot of Sheffield Children’s Hospital – having done so during the recent Sheffield Half Marathon.

James is owner of Homes by Holmes, which is in the process of turning North East Derbyshire District Council’s former headquarters on Saltergate into up to 75 apartments.

James – who grew up working on Chesterfield market – said: “Both of my children have needed the care of Sheffield Children's Hospital, like I’m sure many other people’s have, but especially my son James William.

"He spent the first six months of his life in various hospitals, but 122 of those nights in this hospital, and a further 31 in his second six months of life.

“James William was born without his throat connected to his stomach and heart defects, and he has undergone and will still undergo a number of surgeries to support him to swallow normally.

"We are so lucky to have one of the few dedicated children's hospitals nationally right on our door step.”

James has already smashed his target of raising £5,000 with the total currently standing at more than £10,000.

You can donate at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/JamesWilliamBroookes-Holmes

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