Barefoot runner prepares for 10k

Tuesday 1st May 2012

A sports instructor is to run 10 kilometres barefoot to raise money for the charity where he works.

Andy McNeil will be raising funds for Parkinson's UK Salford Support Group when he tackles the Bupa Great Manchester Run.

And he wants to run barefoot to draw more attention to his cause.

The 39-year-old, from Altrincham, works as an exercise specialist to improve people's health and happiness through tailored physical activity. He has been working with people living with Parkinson's since 2007.

One of his key areas of interest and focus is neurological conditions, and the multiple benefits exercise provides.

Andy said: "I decided to take on the challenge of running barefoot to raise awareness of Parkinson's and vital income for the charity.

"I'm also running barefoot to highlight the importance of the foot as an area of the body to be trained. This importance is often heightened for people living with neurological conditions. The foot is an incredibly complex and beautiful structure that can provide important feedback for walking, running and moving.

"Members of the Parkinson's UK Salford Support Group have had a real impact on my life as they helped to deepen my knowledge of Parkinson's, and achieve my qualification as a specialist instructor."

The Bupa Great Manchester Run takes place on May 20. Andy hopes to complete the course in under an hour.

Paul Jackson-Clark, director of fundraising at Parkinson's UK, said: "Taking part in a running event is a fantastic way to raise vital funds to support our work. We are incredibly grateful to Andy for his support."

To sponsor Andy, visit http://www.virginmoneygiving.com/AndyMcNeil.

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