FearFree is making history this April as the charity cheers on its first-ever runners in the London Marathon and one of them is hard to miss. In the lead up to the race, Gary MacAlister, 47, will be taking his training runs around Wiltshire with a giant green flag. The #ChaseGreenFlags message is designed to spark conversations about healthy relationships and remind people that FearFree is there to support them.
Melksham Town Council applied to the London Marathon as part of their commitment to the Mayor of Melksham’s chosen charity, FearFree. Gary, who has been raising money for charities through running since 1999 and has generated more than £20,000 to date, was invited to take on the marathon in support of raising awareness about abuse. Gary has been trying to secure a place in the London Marathon for 16 years, making this challenge particularly meaningful.
Gary said
“To finally have a place in the London Marathon, and to use it to support a local charity that does so much for our community is a dream come true. #ChaseGreenFlags is a reminder that everyone deserves relationships that are safe, kind and supportive. If running with a green flag around Melksham gets people talking and helps FearFree reach even more survivors then every mile is worth it.”
FearFree work across the South West to end domestic abuse, sexual violence, and stalking. Each year, the organisation helps thousands of people from all backgrounds to rebuild their lives after abuse. Their work spans crisis support, prevention, business training, and policy campaigns.
Debbie Beadle, FearFree CEO said
“We are incredibly grateful to Gary, for taking on the London Marathon and for using every training mile to raise awareness of FearFree and the importance of safe, healthy relationships. Abuse is too often surrounded by shame and stigma, and Gary’s support helps us challenge that silence and bring these conversations out into the open, where they belong. We want people to know we are here for them, and that they do not have to face abuse alone. So please get behind Gary, cheer him on, share his story, and if you can, make a donation to help us continue to support people across the South West”
Gary aims to raise at least £2,500 for FearFree, and hopes that support from the Melksham community will help him surpass the target. Melksham Town Council is providing logistical support.
You can support FearFree’s first-ever entry into the London Marathon by donating to Gary’s Enthuse fundraising page.
Businesses are also invited to get involved by sponsoring the vest that Gary will be wearing during the event, providing exposure to thousands of spectators on the day while helping to support local families experiencing domestic abuse, sexual violence or stalking.