Cops run marathon to raise funds for Bromsgrove charity

Forces across the UK have been inspired by former West Midlands Police assistant chief constable Chris Johnson and his wife Sharon, who are both from Bromsgrove.

Mr Johnson, aged 54, was diagnosed with MND in September 2018 which led him to retire from policing in September 2020 after 29 years of service.

On Sunday, October 24, police officers, colleagues, families, and friends all pulled on their running gear and ran the Rock and Roll Liverpool Marathon and Half Marathon as part of a team named #WMPMND.

David Burrell, chief executive officer at Primrose Hospice said: “It has been an absolute privilege to watch the WMPMND campaign.

Chris and Sharon Johnson with staff from Primrose Hospice.

“Despite several setbacks including the cancellation of the race in 2020, the entire team have shown determination to run this race and raise money for Primrose Hospice and Family Support Centre.

“Thanks to their efforts we have been able to expand our services during covid to help support the community.”

Team WMPMND have raised over £60,000 so far thanks to various fundraising ideas that range from cycling to singing.

The funds will be split between Primrose Hospice and Family Support Centre and the Motor Neurone Disease Association.

Primrose Hospice has been supported Sharon and her family through their family support centre.

She said: “Primrose Hospice is a really special place to myself and my whole family. So, I was privileged to be part of team #WMPMND who have raised not only vital funds but awareness for both charities.

“Running the Rock and Roll Liverpool Half Marathon was certainly a challenge, I’m not a runner but I am now! It was worth every second to see the sea of yellow t-shirts.”

To donate to the WMPMND campaign visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/Team/WMPMND.