A BIRTHDAY cake could be waiting at the finish line to mark a marathon fundraising effort.
Danielle Forsyth is celebrating her 28th birthday by running 26.2 miles alongside Craig Lamb in aid of East Lothian Foodbank.
The duo will set off from Silverknowes Beach in Edinburgh and end at Haddington’s Aubigny Sports Centre, where they both work.
Danielle, who is a leisure assistant, told the Courier it was a birthday with a difference.
She said: “I did the Edinburgh Half Marathon and the Scottish Half Marathon and I am booked in to do the full Edinburgh Marathon next year.
“I wanted something to train towards before obviously May next year and thought why not do it on your birthday – because that’s normal!
“I hope there will be a cake at the end if somebody has organised it.
“I’ll definitely put the feelers out!”
East Lothian Foodbank, which is based in Tranent, provides emergency food and support to local people who are experiencing financial hardship.
Demand has increased in recent years and in 2022 more than 11,300 emergency food supplies were given to people.
One in three emergency food parcels were for children.
Danielle, who previously lived in Haddington and now lives in Prestonpans, said: “We can’t wait to take on this challenge to raise as much money as possible for such an incredible charity.
“It’ll be such an achievement for us, knowing what we raise will be supporting East Lothian Foodbank and individuals across the community, making it all worthwhile.”
Danielle and Craig, who is service manager at the leisure centre on the town’s Mill Wynd, have been training for several months.
Bill Axon, chief executive of Enjoy Leisure, wished Danielle and Craig the best of luck when they take to the start line on September 29.
He said: “I’m extremely proud of my colleagues for taking on this fundraising marathon to raise vital funds for East Lothian Foodbank, our charity of the year.
“This effort is a great example of the compassion that drives our community forward. I have no doubt that Dani and Craig will absolutely smash this challenge.”
Elaine Morrison, from East Lothian Foodbank, stressed the importance of donations both financially and of food to the cause.
She said: “We are absolutely delighted that Dani and Craig are undertaking this incredible challenge to support our work.
“The foodbank is busier than ever and we couldn't do what we do without the generosity of supporters like Dani and Craig.
“We wish them the best of luck!”
To back the duo, go to www.justgiving.com/page/danielle-forsyth-1721141013106
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