London Marathon runner flies flag for carers

Apr 16 2010 by Gordon Bannerman, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

PERTH runner Tony Jackson is putting two feet forward in aid of the local charity PKAVS while flying the flag for unpaid carers in Perth and Kinross.

Big-hearted Tony (29) is supporting the PKAVS Mount Etna Charity Challenge, pledging to run the London Marathon on April 25 to raise funds for the local cause.

The Etna Challenge aims to raise £20,000 for PKAVS through a five-day trek to the summit of Sicily's active volcano in the autumn, and has seen a number of generous local people find creative ways to support the campaign.

Tony has had a long-standing connection with the charity PKAVS through its carer’s branch – The Princess Royal Trust Carers Centre (Perth and Kinross).

The project provides support services to hundreds of unpaid carers living in the Big County, offering invaluable respite and practical and emotional support to improve both financial and personal wellbeing. Tony's mother, Margaret Jackson, is the carers services manager and is thrilled that he’s fundraising for carers again.

No stranger to marathons, Tony completed the 2009 Flora London Marathon with an impressive time of 2:37:37 and was placed 135th.

This year, the ambitious local lad aims to come in the top 100 runners.

In preparation for the big run, Tony clocks-up over 70 miles a week and was recently awarded second place in Perth's Heaven and Hell Half Marathon.

Later in the spring, Tony and three fellow sportsmen from Perth Road Runners will be taking part in the Edinburgh Marathon as a relay team.

Tony would welcome support in the way of sponsorship. Donations can be given by contacting Margaret Jackson on 01738 567076.

For further information on PKAVS and its carers services visit www.pkavs.org.uk