A novice runner so inspired by Jane Tomlinson she completed nine marathons has been named Fundraiser of the Year at a new award ceremony.
Karen Thrippleton, 48, who always wears a picture of Jane when she runs, was given the honour – sponsored by the Yorkshire Evening Post – at a special event to celebrate those helping continue Jane’s legacy.
A dedicated army of fundraisers, volunteers and competitors were all recognised for their role in continuing the work Jane started.
Jane, from Rothwell, made headlines across the world by competing in a series of epic charity challenges from the London Marathon to a 4,200 mile cycle ride across the US – despite being diagnosed with incurable cancer.
Despite her death in 2007 her charity work continues through For All Events which organises the 10k Run for All in Leeds and other challenges.
Those who helped make last year’s events so special were honoured last night at Asda House in Leeds.
Six awards were presented by supporters and celebrities including double gold medal winning Paralympian Hannah Cockroft and Leeds United legend Eddie Gray.
Karen, from Pudsey, had done no running until she heard about the new Leeds 10k six years ago. She has since competed in nearly 300 races and raised around £5,000 for the Jane Tomlinson Appeal. Inspirations eight-year-old James Driver, from Rothwell, and six-year-old Noah Banks, from Selby, were given a special honour for embodying Jane’s ‘Never Give In’ attitude.
Noah completed a children’s run and helped raise £20,000. James took part in two children’s runs to raise funds for surgery to help him walk unaided. Both have cerebral palsy.
For All Events director Sara Birkinshaw said: “We would not be where we are today without our incredible participants, fundraisers and our loyal volunteers and supporters.”
Visit www.forallevents.co.uk for more details.
AWARDS:
Fundraiser of the Year, sponsored by the Yorkshire Evening Post: Karen Thrippleton, 48, from Pudsey.
Volunteer of the Year, sponsored by Capita Symonds: Ankit Grover, 29, from Leeds. Volunteered at three events last year.
Colleague of the Season, sponsored by Asda: Information Systems Development (ISD).Around 50 Asda ISD colleagues raised £3,500 for charity.
Performance of the Year, sponsored by Supreme Engraving and Awards UK: John Burkhill, 74, from Sheffield. Raised £150,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support.
Most Inspirational Moment, sponsored by ITV News’ Calendar: Noah Banks, six, and James Driver, eight. Noah, from Selby, completed the York Mini Run with a walking frame. James, from Rothwell, took part in both the Leeds and York Mini Runs.
The Jane Tomlinson Appeal Award: James Driver and Noah Banks.
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