Rhu neighbours raise £1,800 for NHS with street 'marathon'

Eight teams of runners from Ardenconnel Way took part in the fund-raising fun last Friday in aid of NHS Charities Together.

The neighbours ran up and down the street in timetabled slots with spectators monitoring the total mileage until it passed 72 miles.

Organiser and participant Vanessa Taylor said the idea was inspired by Second World War veteran Captain Tom Moore’s efforts in raising more than £28 million for the NHS by completing 100 laps of his garden before his 100th birthday.

READ MORE: 'Thank ewe': Loch Lomond farm in 'flockdown' tribute to NHS

Vanessa said: “I only came up with the idea on Thursday afternoon. Encouraged by my mum, I messaged our neighbours asking ‘does anyone fancy doing an ultra marathon in aid of supporting and providing funds towards the NHS?’.

“Within seconds, amazingly, they were all saying ‘why not, yes, we are in’.

“Paying attention to social distancing, adults, all our kids and even the dogs contributed in various ways to this incredible cause.

“Everyone from the intense runners in family slots, to those monitoring the 72 miles that were actually achieved, to all who provided goodie bags of food and drink.

“It was a great atmosphere, we all had lots of fun, especially the kids.

READ MORE: Parked cars 'threatening future of vital village shop', says business owner

“Talk about community spirit. It was a successful, memorable day and more importantly raised money to help our NHS heroes.”

The initial target of £500 was comfortably smashed with the total as the Advertiser went to press standing at more than £1,800.

The running teams operating in isolation were: the Bionic Broons, Fantastic Findlays, Leaping Locks, McGarry Movers, Strattrun, Team Mandalorions, Team Sahaville and Tiger Taylors.

Vanessa added: “The sum well surpassed our target. It was more than we ever dreamed of.”

Click here for all the latest Helensburgh and Lomond headlines