A TEACHER from a Stalybridge school is getting ready to take on a 100‑mile coastal run to raise funds for a local hospice.
Paul Gladwell, who is the Assistant Headteacher at Silver Springs Primary Academy, will embark on the solo challenge in Wales in May.
The father-of-three from Diggle in Saddleworth – who is based in the Reception class – says he feels privileged to work with the children from the Ridgehill community.
For his fundraising adventure, he’ll be setting off on May 25 from Felin‑Wen on Ynys Môn to Gwesty Ty Newydd in Aberdaron.
The 54-year-old is raising money and awareness for Dr Kershaw’s Hospice in Oldham, as a way of contributing to the ‘amazing’ care they provide.
Paul told The Correspondent: “I’ve chosen Dr Kershaw’s because I know the Medical Director personally and I am aware not only of the outstanding care that they deliver but the fact they have to raise over £5 million a year to fund the free end-of-life care that they provide.”
The journey along the coastal path will see Paul supported by loved ones and his final destination also holds many special memories.
He said: “My wife Ali, friend Jason and the Mur Melyn crew will be supporting me at various points, feeding and watering me with the occasional kick up the behind when required!
“I first went to Aberdaron when I was 14 years old with my mum and dad. Forty years later, I’m still going every summer! A very special place for us. The coast is beautiful and I’ve seen seals, dolphins and countless seabirds whilst I’ve been out training.”
Paul has already completed an astonishing 82‑mile run with 18,000ft of elevation in Eryri and this time he’s determined to reach the 100-mile mark.
“The plan is to start early Monday morning and get to the pub early afternoon on Tuesday. I’ll hopefully be finishing at the Ty Gwesty in Aberdaron, with a beer or two on the beach balcony, something that will definitely be motivating me to get it done.
“I’ve managed 82 miles with 18,000ft of elevation in Eryri and this is 100 miles with just 10,000ft of elevation so if I get my training right, I’ll get it done.
“I use the amazing Kiss Gym for my strength and conditioning and train six days out of seven. I also use the local area as my training ground and my dog Barney tags along.”
Paul hopes to raise at least £1,000 for Dr Kershaw’s, based in Royton, which provides specialist compassionate care, free at the point of use, for people across Oldham with any life-limiting illness.
Anyone wishing to support Paul’s 100‑mile mission can donate via his JustGiving page:
https://www.justgiving.com/page/paul-gladwell-9