Wayne's Marathon bid to help the lonely

As part of the Co-Op’s National Charity Partnership with the British Red Cross, Wayne is part of a team of 
enthusiastic colleagues gearing up to run the Marathon on Sunday, April 24 in support of 
the company’s joint campaign to tackle 
loneliness the UK.

Wayne, 29, has worked 
for the Co-op for 11 years and has taken part in countless fundraising events - including dressing up in various costumes and collecting money in the 
store’s foyer - and he has raised thousands of 
pounds in the process.

In recent months, he also took part in a two-day 30 mile walk from Louth to Mablethorpe and back, collecting donations for his marathon attempt 
along the way.

Wayne will be running the Marathon in a snowman costume - which he says represents the loneliness that the charities will be 
trying to tackle.

“Sometimes if you’re out in the countryside, you might build a snowman 
and then just leave 
it behind”, said Wayne.

“Some people will just see it as a snowman, but hopefully I will be able to 
put the point across.

“It’s very important to help the lonely - nobody should have to be lonely.”

Wayne will have to contend with an injured knee - which he picked up during his 30 mile walk - but he is hopeful that he will be able to complete the marathon on April 24.

“I’m taking it steady at the moment, but I’m confident that I’ll be able to get around the course on the day. I hope to complete the marathon within seven hours.”

“The London Marathon is one of the runs I have always wanted to do. It will be my first Marathon so I am both excited and nervous - but mostly looking forward to it.

“The Co-op campaign is brilliant and I am glad 
it is to help loneliness.

“I’ve had lots of support from friends and colleagues so I’d like to thank them - and also thanks to all the Co-Op customers who have donated”.

• Wayne has raised £2,900 so far - if you want to help, visit his JustGiving Page at www.justgiving.com/Wayne-Bateman2 and 
make a donation.