Barry running Lincoln 10K in full cricket gear in aid of club supporting men’s health

Barry Howorth was a founder of the Broken XI cricket club and is running the 6.2 mile route around Lincoln on Sunday (April 12) to help raise money for the club and enable members to participate.

Barry explained: “We aim for the club to be as accessible as possible, as someone’s financial position shouldn't impact their ability to get help or do something that can positively impact on their mental heath.

"We do however have costs like any other club and so this is a great way to help raise some funds, so we can continue to do what we are doing while staying true to our objective of being affordable for everyone.”

Barry plans to run in full cricket gear including helmet, whites, pads, gloves and carry his bat”

He said: “I will be running in everything but a box. I did try running in one for a distance but that was just a step to far.”

He has also swapped his cricket shoes for running trainers, in “a rare moment of being sensible”.

Having done a bit of training in preparation, he says he has been to the gym, and even did a few sessions wearing the helmet. "I have ran in full gear between Sleaford and Leasingham and did a few runs last week on holiday in France. It still wont have been enough.

"I am 39, overweight with bad knees and calves and hamstrings that shout at me if I even think of running, but it will have to be enough. Next few days will just be about drinking loads of water to hydrate up and then just do the 10k.”

He admitted: “I am not a long distance runner - even when I was younger and slimmer, so doing it now is just insanity. But if it helps raise money for the club, it will be worth it.”

The amateur sports team is far from just being about cricket. It supports those who are physically, mentally or emotionally damaged via the benefits of team sports.

Barry has surpassed his £400 target, currently at £615, and is still accepting donations at: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/brokenxi