Runner takes on London Marathon in aid of Keighley corps

A funeral director will run the London marathon to support Keighley Salvation Army which provides food parcels to struggling families and individuals.

Shaun Roberts, 54, who has lost four stone since he took up running last June, will take on the 26.2 mile challenge this Sunday (April 23) to support the church and charity in West Yorkshire after seeing the work they do in the local community.

Shaun, who is a father of four, said: “I am terrified about the marathon, but I know I will cross that finish line by hook or by crook! I have my t-shirt printed with my name on it, so I’m looking forward to the crowd cheering me on.

“Anytime I have anything to donate I take it to The Salvation Army and I’ve also done a few funerals there, so there is a connection, which is why I wanted to raise money for them.

“I have seen the amount of work they do to help the community, especially with the food bank. They do a sterling job.”

It was seeing a photograph of himself on holiday last June that motivated Shaun to take up running.

He said: “I thought I looked like a whale that should get back in the sea! I had let myself go and hadn’t been taking care of myself properly.

“I changed my diet, cut down on the sweets, went to the gym and took up running, which I had not done before, then someone suggested I apply for the marathon.

“I run straight after work, I’ve run through rain, snow, minus 10 degrees temperatures, so I feel ready to run through anything!

“I’ve lost four stone since starting so that’s been a motivation for me to keep going.

“I’ve almost at my target so I want to thank everyone who has donated so far as well. The money is going to a great cause and will make a difference to our local community.”

As well as a food bank, Keighley Salvation Army runs a café three times a week, a charity shop, weekly evening meal and activities for parents and toddlers.

Penny Southgate, community manager, said: “We are so grateful to Shaun for taking on this challenge and raising money for The Salvation Army. Our foodbank has seen need soar since the pandemic and now the cost of living crisis so this will make a big difference in helping the most vulnerable members of society. We wish Shaun all the best and will be cheering him on Sunday.”

You can donate to Shaun here