Setting the pace for Parkinson's

A kind-hearted marathon runner has been pounding the streets to raise much-needed cash for the Parkinson’s Disease Society.

Lorna Golding, an administrative assistant at Three Valleys Housing, and many of her colleagues, have pledged to support the charity.

The 42-year-old recently completed the 13-mile Robin Hood Half Marathon in just two hours, two minutes and 24 seconds.

She has already donated £339 to the Nottingham branch of the charity. The charity conducts research into the cause of the disease. It also offers support and services, enabling people affected by Parkinson's and their families, to meet others in similar situations.

Lorna, from Sandiacre, Derbyshire, has supported the Parkinson’s Disease Society since a friend was diagnosed with the disease.

“Around 10,000 people in the UK are diagnosed with Parkinson’s every year, but I only realised its impact when it affected my colleague’s husband.

“The half marathon was tough, but really enjoyable. It was my third one, and in the past I’ve raised money for Cancer Research, but this time I wanted to support Parkinson’s, as I know what my friends are going through.”

She added: “I got lots of generous donations from my Three Valleys Housing colleagues and have asked for the money to go directly to the Nottingham branch to help those people closest to our homes.”

Paul Eastwood, Chief Executive of Three Valleys Housing, said: “We would like to congratulate Lorna on her impressive efforts, and thank supportive colleagues who cheered her on and donated to this good cause.

“The Parkinson’s Disease Society is dependant on voluntary organisations and it is the dedication of determined fundraisers like Lorna that really help to make a difference.”

Three Valleys Housing manages 5,800 homes in and around Long Eaton, Ilkeston and Sandiacre. The organisation was established in March 2002 to take ownership of housing stock transferred from Erewash Borough Council.