Three Runners and a giant stuffed teddy bear are taking part in a run to aid those affected by youth homelessness, domestic abuse, and poor mental health.

On Sunday, April 2, runners from around the world will gather to participate in the Landmark London Half Marathon.

Among them will be Neil Sharp, Ben Metcalfe, Leroy Philbrook and PACtric the Bear.

They are hoping to raise money for Positive Action in the Community, a charity that helps those affected by youth homelessness, domestic abuse, and poor mental health.

Positive Action in the Community (PAC) is an East Lancashire based charity that has been supporting vulnerable individuals and families for over 20 years.

The charity provides a range of specialist services, including safe accommodation, community based support, counselling, and the delivery of universal support, to help those in need rebuild their lives and provide early intervention to prevent escalating needs.

Neil, Ben, Leroy and PACtrick want to raise more than £2,000 for the charity through the half marathon. 

Neil said: "After learning what this fantastic local charity does, it was an easy decision when asked to help raise funds.

"I've run 10k's before, but this is a really big thing for me to do. Let's hope I don't need to crawl too much of it." 

Ben said: "I ran a marathon about five years ago and vowed to never run again, but I just wanted to support a local charity that helps local people in need." 

Leroy added, "PACtrick the bear is a sort of unofficial Mascot for PAC, so I thought I would take him down to London to support us in our Half Marathon Adventure.

"I am hoping to catch a selfie with PACtrick while experiencing London, on the Underground, Trafalgar Square and even Piccadilly Circus."

Lancashire Telegraph:

Neil Sharp who will be taking part in the run

Claire Bennett, chief executive of Positive Action in the Community, noted, "We at PAC are incredibly impressed with the commitment and efforts these runners have gone through to prepare for this event and then take part on the day. 

“I know it is the kind of event they will remember for the rest of their lives. We want to thank them for participating and supporting Positive Action in the Community and wish them the best of luck on Sunday.

"I would ask the public to support their efforts by donating, as your contributions will make a real difference to our ability to respond to the post-pandemic increase in demand for our services."

Neil and Ben are members of the Colne Football Club management committee and have organised a Collection for PAC at the Colne FC match on Saturday, April 1, when Colne FC take on local rivals Ramsbottom United in the Northern Premier League Division One West. 

Tickets are still available for the match for those who want to see the game and come down to support the fundraising efforts of Neil and Ben.

The Landmark London Half Marathon (13.6 Miles) is one of the UK's most popular running events, attracting thousands of participants each year.

The scenic route takes runners through some of the city's most iconic landmarks, including Tower Bridge, the Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye.

To support Neil, Ben Leroy and PACtric and help raise money for Positive Action in the Community, you can visit https://bit.ly/PACHALFMARATHON.