Pontefract Civic Society Chair takes on Tommy 10k challenge to raise funds for The Royal British Legion

Pontefract Civic Society Chair Paul Cartwright took part in the RBL's Paratrooper Commando Challenge, which challenges members of the public to run 10k a week for four weeks.

The effort is part of Royal British Legion’s 'Tommy 10k' fundraising campaign, in which members of the public can take part in by walking or running 10k.

So on Thursday October 15, Paul laced up his running shoes and set off on a 5k run to kickstart the initiative.

Paul (left) with former member of the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, Dave Morrison (right)

Paul said: “It dovetailed with a couple of runs I'd normally do, though I had to plot a different route to meet the right distance.

“And it was very clear that the RBL would not be able to sell poppies on the street, thus greatly diminishing their income to support veterans and their families.

“On my final 5k run towards my 10k run per week, I arranged to drop by an old soldier who lives at the Barracks on Wakefield Road, a fitting place to see Dave Morrison, who’s a former member of the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers."

The Tommy 10k fundraiser asks people to raise money by walking, cycling or running one of three set distances.

Paul arranged to drop by an old soldier who lives at the Barracks on Wakefield Road

It had initially been expected to end this week, but has now been extended to the end of November.

Paul had initially planned to raise £250 for the charity, but has now gone above and beyond his target and secured £456 of support.

And although he has completed his final official run, Paul said he will still keep running if it brings in more funds for the campaign.

Paul's fund will remain open until Monday November 30th, click here to donate to his cause.