Stirling minister takes on marathon challenge to raise vital cash for local youngsters

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Raploch minister the Rev Barry Hughes is well known for going the extra mile for his parishioners.But later this month he’ll be going an extra 26.2 miles exactly to put smiles on the faces of some of the youngsters in the community.Barry is running the London Marathon on April 21 to raise money for children’s activities in Raploch.He told the Observer this week: “This would include the after-school club we run in Raploch Primary School, our annual summer holiday club, a Christmas party for the children of Raploch and other events.

My fundraising target was £1000 and as of today the total stands at £1600.“I’ve run 35 marathons in the last few years, including London 10 years ago, and Stirling when it last took place in 2019.“However I haven’t run a full marathon since before lockdown - so London will be a great way to get back to running that distance again.“My training has been going well, my favourite run being running up to Cocksburn Reservoir just above Bridge of Allan.

I run regularly with one of my neighbours - although he insists on a 5.30am start!”Barry has become a well-known face not only at St Mark’s Parish Church in Drip Road but throughout the wider Raploch and Stirling area, particularly helping those in need.

He is also leader of 1st Raploch Scouts, which have grown in numbers since being established just a few years ago.But he is appreciative of all the backing he has had for his work and efforts over the last few years.He added: “I have been the minister in Raploch now for just over five years and in that time I have received a lot of support from the community in terms of sponsorship and encouragement.” Click here for more news and sport from the Stirling area.