Scarborough man Tony Robinson OBE has different plans for his milestone 70th birthday this year.
Instead of planning a party or celebration, Tony has committed himself to a series of 70 seven-mile runs in the run up for a half and full marathon, all in the name of charity.
Having lost five friends to cancer, Tony wanted to do something in their honour and set himself this big challenge with the aim of raising £2,500 for Macmillan Cancer Support.
Tony, who is Co-Chair of Yorkshire in Business Limited, lost his friends Jude, Digby, Mandy, Charles and Elizabeth to cancer – all of whom are all represented on his strikingly brilliant lobster hat that he wears for his runs.
Seen regularly pounding the Scarborough seafront on his training days, Tony said, “The hat is a real conversation starter, that’s for sure! But when the going gets tough, their (Tony’s friends’) faces and the memories of the times we had together inspire me to keep going. I’m the lucky one.”
Turning 70 in September, Tony has already completed his 70 separate runs and will partake in the Great North Run on September 11th, followed by the Yorkshire Marathon in York on October 17th.
“I have seen what Macmillan Cancer Support provide and they are a real lifeline to people with cancer and their families,” added Tony. “I wanted to do something to mark my 70th year of being on the planet and thought best to raise funds for such a worthy cause. I know times are incredibly difficult at the minute and have often found that people with very little give the most. If people can share my story or, even better, donate a quid or too, it would be very much appreciated.
“I must thank all of my supporters so far, including the staff at The Teapot on the East Pier, for keeping me topped up on coffee and scones!”
Tony fits his training around a very busy work life of being a business speaker and author, whilst also serving as patron of the John Cracknell Youth Enterprise Bank.
Rebekah Holmes, Macmillan’s Fundraising Manager in Yorkshire, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Tony for dedicating his 70th year to others by taking on this epic challenge. It is a very touching tribute to the friends he has lost and we can’t thank him enough for doing whatever it takes for people living with and affected by cancer.”
To donate, head to www.justgiving.com/anthony-robinson11 or text TONY70 to give £5.
