Councillor Chris Furlong running to raise money for foodbanks

Councillor Chris Furlong on a training run

Councillor Chris Furlong is taking on another 10k run to raise money for Heywood and Middleton foodbanks.

The North Middleton Labour councillor completed a 10k back in February to raise money for the same cause, and is getting ready to make a run for it yet again this Sunday at the Greater Manchester 10k.

Councillor Furlong has raised approximately £80,000 for charities between 2007 and 2013, and was given an ‘Above and Beyond’ award for his efforts in 2013.

Having trained with his daughter Caitlin, who runs for Rochdale Harriers, he says he is ready to take on another challenge and even beat his personal best.

Councillor Furlong said: “I know both foodbanks are being swamped in demand due to the government cuts, so I am trying to raise as much money for them as possible. Both Demesne on Langley and Heywood foodbanks are the unsung heroes and need as much financial and material help as possible to cope with all this demand.

“Previous charity work I have done is for local schools, Help for Heroes, community centres, kids football teams, MacMillan, Movember, local churches, Springhill Hospice, local guides, The Christie hospital and Sandon House amongst others, but it got to the point my kids were sick of seeing me in the media. I haven’t made my fundraising public for a long time, but on this occasion I really want to get the word out there and really try and make some money for these guys, as they really need it.”

He added: “I had to pause my training due to the local elections but as I walked over 80 miles during the campaign delivering leaflets and knocking on doors I managed to keep my fitness up. As well as donating on the website there are sponsor forms at both Heywood and Middleton foodbanks.

"Any donations no matter the size would be really appreciated for these two very worthy causes.”

To donate, visit:

https://www.justgiving.com/Chris-Furlong2