‘I’m up for the challenge’

Coun Hughes is a former-deputy mayor and will be taking part in the event to raise cash for the Stroke Association.

“I was looking at running the 5k that West Lindsey are putting on as part of Octoberfest,” said Coun Hughes, 54.

“Plus whenever I watch the London Marathon on TV I think I could do that - but that would probably be a step too far!”

“Then I thought about doing the Great North Run because I still play squash a the Leisure Centre, but I’m not a natural runner and wanted to do something to get a bit fitter.”

Coun Hughes will be running in aid of the Stroke Association after a relative died from a stroke, and has been hard at work in preparing for the run.

“My son’s grandmother died last December after suffering a serious stroke earlier in the year, and the Stroke Association provides valuable support as well as research for stroke sufferers,” he said.

“I’m trying to raise about £500. I’m up to about £300 so far, and this is such a good cause that if anybody can donate anything at all it would be greatly appreciated.”

He continued: “I’m reasonably confident. I don’t think I’m going to break any records but if I can do it in under three hours I’ll be happy.”

Coun Hughes added: “I’ve been training since April by running about 10 miles a week so fingers crossed!”

To sponsor Coun Hughes for the Great North Run you can visit www.justgiving.com/Vaughan-Hughes or call him on 07738397032 to make a pledge.