Computer programmer tackles Amsterdam Marathon (From Runcorn and Widnes World)

Widnes dad runs for children's charity

12:30pm Monday 24th September 2012 in News By Barbara Jordan

A WIDNES dad will be running past historic canals and windmills in Holland in his quest to support a children’s charity.

Jamie Kerr is taking part in the Amsterdam Marathon on October 21, in aid of Barnardos.

The race starts and finishes at the Olympic Stadium.

The route goes through the city centre and takes in many scenic sites including nature reserves on each side of the river Amstel, Riksmuseum, and the Vondelpark.

Jamie, aged 36, of Harebell Close, Upton Rocks, said: “There were 30,000 entries so it’s going to be a squeeze at the start line.

“This is my third marathon. I’m looking to raise as much as possible for Barnardos and also to beat my 3 min 32 sec time I got last year in Chester.”

His wife, Louise, aged 33, a nurse at St Paul’s Health Centre in Runcorn, and five-year-old daughter, Sophie, a pupil at Holy Family Primary School in Cronton, will be cheering him on.

Paul, an IT computer programmer, is grateful to his company, Fujitsu, for once again sponsoring him.

Former Fairfield pupil, Paul, said: “I have promised my daughter some clogs.

“I chose Barnardos because they do some fantastic work and deserve recognition.

“My training regime is going well. I aim for between 40-50 miles a week.”

The first Amsterdam Marathon was held in 1975.

To sponsor Jamie, visit http://www.justgiving.com/Jamie-Kerr4