Inspiring charity to support Eastern Run

Terminally-ill cancer sufferer Jane Tomlinson (centre) finishes the 'People's Race' at the Salford Triathlon World Cup with her daughters Rebecca (right) and Suzanne (left, Salford Quays, Manchester. Pic Martin Rickett/PA. Unique Reference No. 2006106 ... SOCIAL Tomlinson 6

The Jane Tomlinson Appeal will be the race’s half marathon title charity.

Jane, who lived in Peterborough between 1986 and 1989, raised £1.85 million for children’s and cancer charities through a series of physical challenges following her diagnosis with cancer. She died in 2007.

She moved from Yorkshire to Orton Goldhay when husband Mike transferred to the city to work for the Yorkshire Bank. One of their daughters, Rebecca, was born in the city, and Mike said they had enjoyed their time in Peterborough.

Cancer sufferer Jane Tomlinson from Leeds at the 16 mile stage during her attempt at the New York City Marathon. Pic: Chris Ison/PA. Unique Reference No. 2679950 ..

He said: “We moved out of the city in 1989, and five months later she was diagnosed. If we had moved six months later, we might have stayed there. We enjoyed our stay there - we bought our first house, our daughter was born there and I am still in touch with friends in Peterborough.

“When we lived here I would occasionally go for a run, and Jane would laugh at me. She only started doing the activities when she was diagnosed. “She would say that anyone can do this - set yourself a goal and have a go. You might have only done a 10k before, but if you set yourself a target, you can do it.

“Our aim is to give back to communities that helped us. Every penny raised on the day will go to Peterborough good causes.”

Rebecca, who will be running the half marathon on Sunday, October 9, 2016, said: “We’re so excited that the Perkins Great Eastern Run has chosen to support the Jane Tomlinson Appeal in 2016.

“My parents moved to Peterborough not long after they got married and I was born there, so the city will always be really special to me. To know that the city is helping to carry on mum’s legacy now is really touching for me.

“I’m really looking forward to being there and running the event for myself. I’ve read about what a fast course it is so I’m hoping for a PB. It would be great if people can join me by getting behind the Appeal this year.”

To enter this year’s race visit www.perkinsgreateasternrun.co.uk. You’ll be able to select the charity you wish to raise money for during the application process. To find out more about the charity and the work they do visit www.janetomlinsonappeal.com