30 members of same Leeds family to run in aid of Stroke Association after death of great-grandmother

Bets’ are taking on the challenge - at Temple Newsam this Mother’s Day - inspired by their mother Betty, who passed away in 2012 following a stroke aged 82.

Betty’s daughter, Marie Firth from Micklefield, said: “Mum was our complete world and adored by us all. She was so selfless and amazingly kind. Struggling to bring eight children up with very little, she did a remarkable job.”

Betty had 8 children, 17 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild, although there are now 13 great grandchildren in the family.

Marie added: “After mum’s stroke I was given a leaflet from the hospital and wanted to support the Stroke Association, to help other families who have been affected.

"Then three years ago I found out about the Resolution Run, so I put a team together and Bets Jets was born.

“Betty’s children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and extended family and friends are all involved in the event and it has grown each year.

"To begin with there were 12 of us running the first year. This time there will be around 25-30 runners aged from 5-80 years and my intention is to grow year on year.

“We thoroughly enjoy it in the beautiful surroundings of Temple Newsam.

"A couple of family members who don’t run provide refreshments at the end, where we have a glass of bubbly and toast Betty.

“Training begins in January and it’s a great way to focus and get a little bit competitive.

"We gain so much from the experience and look forward to it coming around every year. It brings the family together in times when lives are so busy, while focusing on keeping fit.

“Last year the run was on Betty’s birthday and this year it is on Mother’s Day - she’s certainly up there watching and smiling! We’re proud to join the resolution and run the Resolution Run to help rebuild lives after stroke.”

Adrian Greenwood, Regional Fundraiser at the Stroke Association, said: “Stroke recovery is a marathon not a sprint. And each recovery is as individual as each survivor. That’s why we’re encouraging people to join our Resolution Run in Leeds and raise vital funds for the Stroke Association.

“Life after stroke is different for us all, but there is one way we can stand together. The Resolution Run is the perfect opportunity to mark a milestone in your own stroke recovery, show your support for a friend or family member affected by stroke, or in memory of a loved one. You can run, walk or cheer and choose your distance to suit you. It’s more than a run, it’s a resolution to help rebuild lives after stroke.”

There are 1.2 million stroke survivors in the UK living with devastating wide-ranging disabilities such as speech difficulties, memory loss and mental health issues. The Stroke Association provides specialist support, funds critical research and campaigns to make sure people affected by stroke get the very best care and support to rebuild their lives.

Entry fee is just £15 and runners can choose their distance from a range of distances depending on location.

Walk or run, all participants will receive a medal waiting at the finish line.

To join the resolution, visit www.resolutionrun.org.uk, email [email protected] or call 0300 330 0740.