Paul's 70th 70k run raises £7k for Compassion UK

Paul Coleman from Norwich ran 70km on his 70th birthday raising £7,000 for a Compassion UK project in Togo. Peter Bending reports.

---

On Sunday October 8, after months of training, Paul Coleman ran 70 kilometres around Norfolk to raise money for a new agroecology centre initiative in Togo, West Africa.

Setting out at 5am from his home in Spixworth, Paul headed to Wroxham where he joined the Bure Valley path onto Aylsham on Marriotts Way, and from there onto Soul Church and the finish line.
 
Paul said: “Believe me when I say that this challenge pushed me to my absolute limits. To overcome the physical pain, I had to overcome the negative thoughts that tried to get in my head.
 
“All of what took place would not have happened had it not been for the unfailing love and belief in me by my wife, Linda! Her love for me and the passion that we both share, to see children released from poverty in Jesus’ name, is an inspiration to me and so many others. I love you Linda with all of my heart.”
 
All the money raised will be going towards a new agroecology centre initiative in Togo, West Africa. The centre will benefit many of the students and families already sponsored through Soul Church, Norwich, by establishing sustainable agriculture practices in the area.
 
The centre will become the heart of agroecology learning and development in the Maritime Region and will include: a solar-powered borehole, a training room/office and a dormitory with toilets, and a biodigester for turning organic waste into fertiliser.
 
Linda Coleman said: “Family joined at various points to give support either running with Paul or helping me with his supplies, there was a lot of prayer as well as training that went into the day. We’re thankful for the donations from so many people for this incredible cause, which continue to come in, and it’s certainly not too late to sponsor.”
 
It is the start of Compassion’s ambitious plans to alleviate present pressures and mitigate long-term food insecurity.

“Learnings from the centre, the farm school and from savings scheme initiatives will inform future plans in creation care and livelihood work supporting children and families throughout Togo,” said Paul.
 
“Thank you to every person or persons who has donated to this fundraiser that will ultimately bring huge relief to children and families in Togo, you are incredible!”


You can still donate at challenges.compassionuk.org