Famous faces join fun run for charity

The sky was grey and the air filled with drizzle. But the spirits were high among the runners – including famous faces – who hit the streets of Wolverhampton for an annual run.

Wolves heroes Steve Bull and Don Goodman joined Wolverhampton-born TV presenter Suzi Perry and soul singer Beverley Knight to lead around 250 fundraisers for the annual Run For Dreams event.

And it didn't matter whether they ran, jogged or walked the 4km course, the runners who left the comfort of their homes to defy the weather were there for one thing – to raise cash and make dreams come true for sick youngsters.

Young and old gathered at Molineux yesterday morning, some in fancy dress, to support Promise Dreams, the city-based national children's wish-making charity of which Steve, Don and Suzi are patrons.

Don, now a fitness trainer, led a 10-minute warm-up for the runners and described them as "special people". Bully told how the number of supporters had dwindled from more than 700 when the run was first launched four years ago.

"The numbers are getting less and less each year," he told the crowd. "We don't want that to happen. Thank you all so much for turning up and for your support. Tell all your friends so they turn up next year as well." The organisation, which was launched in 2001, makes dreams come true for seriously ill youngsters whether they be vital medical treatment, holidays, toys or even a meeting with their favourite celebrity.

Among those taking part was Nikki Emery with her three sons Danny, aged 14, Bailey, aged 12, and five-year-old Harley who dressed as Batman.

The 37-year-old teaching assistant from Coseley said: "We have taken part in the run for the past three years. The charity went in to Danny's school to do a talk and we have done it ever since then.

"We are running to raise money for the people who can't run. It is the first time Harley has taken part but I want him to start doing charity fun runs from an early age."