A group of four are preparing to channel the memory of their lost loved one, as they put their best foot forward for a fund-raising marathon run.
The Dowding team of Sudbury have raised more than £4,500 ahead of embarking on this year’s London Marathon, on April 21.
The quartet are running in honour of well-known Sudbury man Jonnie Dowding, who died suddenly in December 2022 due to an undiagnosed brain aneurysm.
To help collect funds for Brain Research UK, Jonnie’s brothers Terry and Dave, sister-in-law Chanelle and partner Chloe Lowman have staged various fund-raising events around the town, all while training for the 26.2-mile run.
Chloe said the past year had been very difficult for Jonnie’s family and friends, as his death was so sudden and unexpected.
“He wasn’t poorly before or anything like that,” she said. “It was completely out of the blue.
“We wanted to support Brain Research UK, because it doesn’t seem to be as big or as well recognised as cancer. The response has been really amazing.
“Jonny was really well known around town, so I think everyone wants to help.”
To date, the team’s fund-raisers include a pool tournament and a charity shop disco at the Horse & Groom, a bingo event at The Crown, in Wormingford, a ‘bikeathon’ at Waitrose and a raffle with prizes donated by businesses.
They are also planning to hold a charity pub quiz, which had been written by Jonnie before he died, and a fancy dress fundraiser at Specsavers, where Chloe works.
She added: “I’ve never run a marathon – I didn’t even run that much at all before this, but Chanelle ran it for another charity last year, so we’ve all been training together.
“It has been tricky fitting the training in, but we’re getting there. I’m very nervous about the marathon, but also really excited. It will be an emotional day.”
Donate at www.justgiving.com/page/team-dowding.
The group are targeting a fund-raising total of at least £7,000 and are welcoming donations via their online appeal.
