Big run for little Rosie

Team leader Mike Kempton organised the run in tribute to his two-and-a-half-year-old niece, Rosie Moncrieff, who has Nemaline Rod Myopathy - an extremely rare, life-shortening condition which affects almost every muscle in her body, making ordinary, everyday tasts like smiling, eating, sitting and lifting things almost impossible.

And now Mike, and four of his friends, are taking on the incredible challenge of running from Sheffield to Manchester in one day, to try and raise funds to fund further research that could help Rosie.

Mike, said: “I am so inspired by Rosie every time I see her. She does not let her condition hold her back and, along with her incredible parents, they show what can be achieved with a positive attitude and determination.

“I wanted to do something for Rosie and other children suffering from similar conditions. After getting into running over the last few years myself and a friend at work came up with an idea for a big physical challenge. After I spoke to some of my lifelong friends about taking part, the ‘Sheffield 2 Manchester Run’ was born.

“Together, our ‘S2MR’ team - along with the support of friends and family - plans to tackle this challenge head on. Every pound donated makes the challenge that bit easier. Together we hope to raise a substantial amount of money that could go a long way towards assisting Muscular Dystrophy UK with the funding required to continue their amazing research into improving the lives of kids like Rosie.”

The run will take place on April 21. The team will leave Endcliffe Park in Sheffield for the 60km run.