A MAN is to take on the London Marathon in aid of a Shipley-based charity which supports people in the criminal justice system.

On Sunday, October 3, Damien Fleming will join 50,000 other runners to take on the gruelling challenge.

He's doing to raise funds for the Margaret Carey Foundation (MCF).

MCF delivers bike maintenance training workshops for individuals in prisons to support rehabilitation, and as preventative activities with young people in the community to deter them from crime.

The charity’s workshops provide opportunities for people to learn practical skills for whilst making a valuable contribution to the wider community through the bikes they refurbish.

Damian has spent the majority of his working life in the field of youth justice and is currently employed by Her Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service.

Through his employment experience Damian has become passionate about the rehabilitation of people in the criminal justice system, particularly through restorative justice approaches like those in MCF workshops.

Damian first became aware of the charity through a colleague who is the chair of trustees of MCF, and as a keen runner jumped at the chance to run the marathon to raise funds for the charity.  

He said: “The thought of training through the summer months was a daunting prospect when I started but I have relished the challenge and hope that I can raise as much money as possible for this great charity.”  

There will be no time to rest once Damian completes the Virgin London marathon, as he will also be taking part in the Manchester Marathon the following weekend.

Jon Warrick, CEO says: “We were thrilled to secure a ballot place in the 2021 Virgin London Marathon and Damian’s affinity with our charitable aims made him the perfect person to represent us. We’re so grateful for Damian’s support and hope that he can raise as much sponsorship as possible to support our workshops and that he has a great experience taking part in this iconic event.”

To sponsor Damian, go to: uk.virginmoneygiving.com/DamianFleming1