Macclesfield resident set to do epic run for Help for Heroes

By Jamie Griffiths 30th Jan 2024

Jack is originally from Shropshire, but has spent most of his life now in Macclesfield. And later this year, he will give his body his biggest test yet. (Image - Alexander Greensmith / Macclesfield Nub News)
Jack is originally from Shropshire, but has spent most of his life now in Macclesfield. And later this year, he will give his body his biggest test yet. (Image - Alexander Greensmith / Macclesfield Nub News)

A Macclesfield man is attempting to run 800km in just 20 days to raise money for charity.

Jack Poyser, who works for an underfloor heating firm in Macclesfield, has been inspired to take on the challenge in support of the armed forces.

The Macclesfield resident will take on the challenge in aid for Help for Heroes, from May to the first week of June.

The runner's 497-miler will finish on June 6, D-Day.

He's already raised £677 before setting foot on his nationwide sprint. (Image - Alexander Greensmith / Macclesfield Nub News)

2024 marks the 80th anniversary of D-Day, so Jack has settled on running 800 kilometres for his chosen charity.

"I always wanted to join the armed forces, but I was epileptic so they would not let me in," he said.

His epic trek will start at the Albemarle barracks outside Newcastle, before finishing at the White Cliffs of Dover.

He hopes to raise thousands of pounds for Help for Heroes. Jack chose to raise money for this charity in support of all the hard work they do.

The names of Macclesfield personnel lost in the First and Second World Wars, Park Green, Macclesfield. (Image - Alexander Greensmith / Macclesfield Nub News)

Help for Heroes was founded in 2007 to provide practical support to veterans and their families across the UK.

When he was younger, Jack wanted to join the army but he was unable to due to medical reasons.

This didn't stop his unwavering support of the armed forces and his eagerness to help out.

On his JustGiving page, the fundraising target is £4000.

He'll traverse the length of England in aid of Help for Heroes. (Image - Alexander Greensmith / Macclesfield Nub News)

However, he is determined to raise significantly more, and admits he'd love to get eight to keep the theme of 'eight' going.

He has been self-sufficient in this challenge by taking on a second job on Saturdays to try and fund the arduous journey himself.

According to Jack, lots of businesses have reached out to ask what they can do and how they can sponsor or fund parts of the way.

And more can still get in touch with him to do so.

Jack always wanted to join the army, but his epilepsy kept him from serving his country. But this charity challenge is a way for him to finally fulfil his ambition to help the armed forces. (Image - Alexander Greensmith / Macclesfield Nub News)

He said: "with everyone, especially the local businesses reaching out, it has been very moving that so many people truly want to be there and helping out with it all".

"I hope as many people as possible do see what I am trying to do and really do want to become a part in helping not just a fantastic charity doing fantastic things but helping those who do suffer and don't get as much support as we all know they should do".

A lot of people have been in touch with personal stories of family members and what's happened with them during or post service, which has been heartwarming for Jack to hear.

He would like to thank the people of Macclesfield and those who have already donated for their support.

Scan the QR code or click the red link in the sentence above to head to the donation page. (Image - Alexander Greensmith / Macclesfield Nub News)

Macclesfield: If you would like to donate to Jack's charity crowdfunder, please click the link here.

     

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