A mother from the Black Country who ran the Milton Keynes Marathon in memory of a friend has raised £1,740 for two local causes.
 
Gail Bradley, pictured centre, from Rowley Regis says the funds will be split equally between Sandwell Women’s Aid and the trust fund set up to support friend Kerry Smith’s daughter after her mother was tragically murdered by her ex-partner just twelve months ago.
 
“I wanted to support a local charity that works at grass roots level to tackle domestic violence,” said Gail. “If my endeavours can help raise awareness of the problem then all the miles I’ve put into training and running the event itself will be worth every penny donated.”
 
Whilst friends and colleagues rallied round to offer sponsorship, PPDG also heard about the run and wanted to get involved in some way.
 
PR Manager Phil Pemble said: “Our staff in the Black Country suggested we might make a donation from our payroll giving scheme and Gail typifies those people in the community who so often do extraordinary things to support charities and worthy causes.
 
We were able to contribute £300 from the fund and were delighted when we learned just how much she had raised in total; I’m sure the money will help make a real difference to people’s lives.”
 
On the day of the marathon the British weather took its toll on the entrants but as competitors dropped out Gail’s determination carried her through. “I had to finish for all those sponsors who showed faith in me,” she said. “And I was doing it for Kerry and for her daughter; we’re already planning something bigger for next year to continue building funds for her future.”