Harrogate and Knaresborough MP Tom Gordon has announced the charities that he will be supporting when he runs the London and Paris marathons in the coming months.
Last month, Tom asked constituents to nominate charities they believed he should support as part of his two-marathon challenge.
And after 20 suggestions of both local and regional charities, he has selected Open Country and Harrogate Hospital and Community charity.
Open Country is a charity based in Harrogate that supports people with disabilities to get out and enjoy the countryside.
Harrogate Hospital and Community charity helps raise funding for equipment and improving facilities at Harrogate Hospital, which is the main provider of healthcare for Harrogate and Knaresborough residents.
Tom is aiming to raise £1,000 for each charity.
He said:
“Thank you so much to everyone for all the wonderful suggestions. It’s really highlighted just how many great charities we have supporting and serving in our communities.
“The final decision was incredibly hard, but I am proud to be raising money for Open Country and Harrogate Hospital Community Charity, that help support our communities.
“You can support me by donating online, with all money to be split equally between these two great charities.
“I’m aiming to raise £1,000 for both – so anything you can give will be much appreciated, and will go to helping these charities’ incredible work.”
The funds raised for Open Country will help to keep their minibuses ready for the road, and contribute towards a tandem cycle and equipment for their popular tandem clubs, which give the opportunity to enjoy a bike ride to people with disabilities.
Open Country’s Chief Officer David Shaftoe said:
“We are both delighted and grateful to be one of the charities chosen by Tom to support.
“Every mile he covers in his marathon will bring local people with disabilities a step closer to accessing and enjoying our Yorkshire countryside.
“We wish Tom all the best with his training – and we will be cheering him on in his endeavours.”
Meanwhile, Harrogate Hospital and Community charity will use the funds to buy new specialist equipment and provide training and services at Harrogate Hospital.
Their fundraising supports the hospital in providing care for the local communities in Harrogate and Knaresborough.
Lulu Tucker, Assistant Director of Strategy said:
“This year we are celebrating our 30th birthday, and we are delighted to have been chosen as one of Tom Gordon’s nominated charities.
"It’s amazing to have been selected by our local community, and the money raised will be used to purchase a piece of equipment for our gynaecology department, benefitting thousands of local women and ensuring we can continue to provide the best possible healthcare.”
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