A retired Rugeley couple are putting their best foot forward to complete a marathon this January, all in aid of helping local disabled children receive the life changing equipment they desperately need.

Wendy and Dave Barnsley have signed up to Newlife Active, the latest fundraising campaign launched by Newlife the Charity for Disabled Children. The Cannock based charity has challenged people to take part in a sponsored virtual running challenge throughout January to fund equipment such as specialist beds, seating and wheelchairs.

Those taking part in Newlife Active can choose from a 5K, 10K, half or full marathon and track their progress using a smart phone, Fitbit or manually logging progress online.

Wendy said: “We decided to do a virtual marathon over the month so we are chipping away at it, roughly doing a mile a day for 26 days, rather than doing it all in one go. So far I have walked, run, jogged and even danced my way to my mile a day.

“Helping children is a real passion of mine as I was an Early Years Practitioner before I retired, so when I heard about this I wanted to get involved. It’s also a great way to get fit and banish the winter blues!”

Wendy added: “We are hoping to raise £260 each for Newlife through sponsorship, which is £10 a mile. So far everyone has been very positive and we are really enjoying it!”

There’s still time to sign up for Newlife Active, so don’t delay, visit www.newlifecharity.co.uk/newlifeactive or call 0800 988 4640.