COMMUNITY champion Fred Learmonth of Gorleston is looking for people to join him on a mobility scooter marathon in aid of the Palliative Care East Appeal.

COMMUNITY champion Fred Learmonth of Gorleston is looking for people to join him on a mobility scooter marathon in aid of the Palliative Care East Appeal.

He said: “The purpose is to not only try and get donations for the medical staff who look after patients with terminal illnesses, like myself, but to make people aware of who they are.

“Some people are confined either to a wheelchair or mobility scooter, but we can still live a full life, the best we can, whilst coping with our illness.”

He added: “The Macmillan Cancer nurses at the James Paget University Hospital have taken me this far, with their support towards myself and family, and this is my way of saying thanks for all they staff do for me, and for the support they tirelessly give those like myself.”

Fred wants anyone in the similar position as himself to join him on his marathon in April.

Fred, who has both bone and prostate cancer, said: “I will be starting the marathon in my wheelchair and I will be accompanied by a number of family and friends. I'll start by using my hands on the wheelchair, but a family member will be right behind with my mobility scooter.

“I would like any businesses out there to sponsor me for which I would be very grateful as this is a very worthy cause. I would also like to say to people if you see me on my way please dig deep into your pockets as any donation will be very much appreciated. All monies raised will go to palliative care, towards their target of �1.5m to get their unit built as soon as possible.”

Fred was out last Saturday testing a couple of routes and has now chosen one that will be between six to eight miles long.

At the moment the route will run along High Street in Gorleston, and into Southtown Road, over Haven Bridge, up to the Market Place, and finishing at Asda.

Fred is no stranger to active community events and initiatives. Two years ago he received an award from Norfolk County Council to mark his crusade against anti social behaviour in his neighbourhood.

Anyone who would like to join Fred in his marathon on Saturday, April 4, or wants further information should call 07882 333801.