Stroud MP Siobhan Baillie is taking part in the town’s half marathon again this year to help raise funds for a new Rush Skatepark.
Ms Baillie completed the course in two hours, five minutes, and eight seconds a few years ago in aid of the same cause.
She is now gearing up for the 13.1 mile run on October 29th to help pay for Rush Sports Community Trust’s planning application. It wants to develop the new park for young people on a 16-acre site off the A38 at Putloe after the old one was closed by the council a few years ago.
The MP has been a big supporter of the skate park and the plans for a new one. She is hoping to beat her last fundraising total of £420.
“I’m doing my best to get some training in around my MP and mum duties but my commitment to seeing a new Rush Skatepark will get me most of the way round,” said Ms Baillie.
“Just lodging the planning application is a huge expense for the trust and it is not the sexy bit, like the building stage, so it is tough to get grants. I would like Stroud District Council to look at the fees they are going to charge as it’s tens of thousands of pounds. Young people all over the district want us to get spades in the ground as soon as possible.
“The best of luck to everyone who is taking part this year – many for good causes like mine. I will see you all on the start line and hopefully the finish line too – although I will be in a bit of an exhausted state by then!”
Debbie Bird from Rush Sports Community Trust said: “We feel so lucky at Friends of Rush to have Siobhan running Stroud half for us for a second time this year, it is hugely appreciated.
“Every person who sets up their own fundraiser for the new Rush takes us another step closer. We will be cheering you along, Siobhan. Good luck!”
