Helen Bly tackles the Manchester Half Marathon after dropping six dress sizes

Helen Bly

Helen Bly, 39, from Heywood, is taking part in the Manchester Half Marathon this month after dropping six dress sizes and catching the ‘running bug’.

The mum-of-two started running five years ago, after finding herself an overweight and unfit size 18. She decided to make a change which has seen her completely transform her life and take on challenges she never would have imagined.

She said: “I started running just one mile, which became 5k, then 10k, and then a half-marathon,” says Helen. “The weight had started to fall off me, and the way running made me feel was fantastic.”

Helen has gone from being unable to run for a minute to completing an ultra-marathon this year, dropping six dress sizes in the process. Signing up for her first marathon in 2015, Helen soon caught the bug and is aiming to complete 12 marathons in one year during 2017.

Helen added: “I run for a little boy called Evan who has a neuro-genetic condition, Angelman Syndrome and can’t communicate or walk.

“The charity ‘I Run for Michael’ buddy up runners with children who can’t run for a number of reasons, so I’m aiming to do lots of miles for him this year.”

Helen will join thousands of other runners at the Manchester Half Marathon on Sunday 15 October, which is organised by Xtra Mile Events in partnership with Trafford Council. The event takes in the streets of Manchester, finishing at Emirates Old Trafford, the home of Lancashire Cricket Club, with a prize-giving ceremony taking place at Trafford Town Hall.
Helen will be raising funds for 'Assert', which supports families of those with Angelman Syndrome and can’t wait to head to the start line.

Heleb said: “Manchester is one of the best places that you can run. There is no other support like it, and I am really looking forward to being a part of that fantastic atmosphere.”