Man's marathon challenge for homeless charity

A novice runner is set to complete the London marathon to raise money for a homeless charity in his home town.

Born and bred in Wolverhampton, Gareth Jones plans to boost awareness of the support offered by the Good Shepherd charity after he received help when suffering with mental health.

"I am now in a position to be able to help others in their recovery journey, and no matter how small an impact I can make, I want to," he said.

So far he has raised more than half of his target of £3,000 ahead of the challenge on 26 April.

Jones, who runs In-Comm Training, leads a company in providing apprenticeships and upskilling opportunities to engineering and manufacturing firms.

The firm recently completed a 12-month partnership with the Good Shepherd as its Charity of the Year, providing over £25,000 worth of contributions to boost the charity's work across the city.

He added: "It's a personal challenge but also a celebration of recovery.

"I'm Wolverhampton born and bred and know some of the people supported by the Good Shepherd. When backing a local charity you get to see the impact, meet the people and make a noticeable difference."

Tom Hayden, chief executive of the Good Shepherd, said the charity was "incredibly grateful" for support which "helps us to keep delivering our vital services to some of the most disadvantaged people in our community."

He continued: "Gareth's contribution as a volunteer, fundraiser and now Business Ambassador shows his amazing determination to help others on their own recovery journeys. We wish him the very best of luck in his training and on the day of the marathon!"

The organisation, launched more than 50 years ago, has supported people across Wolverhampton with its mission to end homelessness, support recovery and create pathways out of poverty.

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