Leisure Chairman set for Great North Run

Mr Beckett is in the process of raising funds for the Mayor’s Charity, Stepping Stones and the Mayor, Alderman William Leathem, is very grateful for his colleague’s efforts. Stepping Stones is based at 39 Seymour Street in the city and supports people with a learning disability or learning difficulty to fulfil their individual work potential. The organisation’s objective is to fully integrate people with learning disabilities and learning difficulties into society. Mr Beckett commented: “The Great North Run will certainly be a challenge for me but I enjoy a challenge and I have been busy trying my best to get in shape and more importantly stay in shape for the run which is just over 13 miles. I would ask anyone who would like to sponsor my efforts to please get in touch with me as I am trying to raise funds for the Mayor’s Charity and help spread the word about the vital community work that Stepping Stones do.”

The Mayor said: “We have a number of projects to raise funds coming on board, but I would especially like to thank Thomas for his efforts, it really is very much appreciated and I hope that people will get behind him and sponsor his Run. Every amount pledged will do so much good, whether great or small and will help us to help Stepping Stones in its ongoing work.

“This local charity does such sterling work in the community. It provides a practical springboard for young adults with a learning disability or learning difficulty to be equipped with skills which can be transferred into the employment market.

“It is difficult enough for people to gain employment in the current economic climate and for those persons with a learning disability or learning difficulty, the challenge is all the harder. Stepping Stones provides such a vital resource. It has a tailor-made programme of employment skills training and development to help persons achieve their maximum potential. On behalf of the Council I wish Thomas the very best of luck, that he completes his race and of course I wish to thank him most sincerely for his efforts which are very much appreciated,” said the Mayor.