In celebration of International Day of Charity, and with just over two weeks to go, the Atalian Servest colleagues running in the Great East Run for our Charities of the Year have shared how their training is coming along and why running for the three charities mean so much.

Daniel Dickson, CEO UK & Ireland

Running a half marathon is no easy feat, but knowing I’m running to help charities close to the heart of our colleagues is all the inspiration I need.

Raising money for Mind, Alzheimer’s Society and Alzheimer Scotland will help them to continue their important work, battling two of the largest health issues in the UK. I’m proud to be part of the Atalian Servest team running the Great East Run, but also of all the colleagues who are supporting us with training tips, encouragement and sponsorship.

As an Ipswich Town fan, I’m also looking forward to passing the statues of two football legends, Sir Bobby Robson and Sir Alf Ramsey, before finishing in Portman Road stadium’s practice pitch!

Kelly Howell, HR Director

I am really looking forward to the Great East Run, but I must admit I have found the training quite challenging. I’m not a natural long-distance runner, so I’m trying to fit short runs in regularly and going to a gruelling spin class as much as I can.

But having said this, I am determined and motivated because all three charities are so important and affect the lives of many of our colleagues and their families.

I would encourage anyone who is up for a challenge to join/support us in raising awareness and money for these great causes.

Steven Moore, MD of Security

When I found out that the business had chosen such fantastic charities, I jumped at the chance of doing my bit. MIND is particularly close to my heart, after a friend took their own life unexpectedly which devastated a very close-knit community so I feel proud to be helping such an important charity.

Although I was a keen runner throughout my younger years, I must confess that it has been tough trying to get back into it. I’m currently running around 9 miles comfortably, so I am feeling confident with the 2 weeks of training we have left.

I have set myself a personal goal of completing the half marathon in under 2 hours, which is achievable if my knees don’t give up!

Jen Bates, Sector MD

After completing a marathon earlier this year I have been running shorter miles, but I am ready for my next challenge, so I commenced training 5 weeks ago. I am now back up to 10 miles, which I regularly run with a great circle of friends which helps with motivation.

Knowing people who are affected by both Alzheimer’s and mental health issues is a really big motivator, particularly as my own father has signs which is linked to his Parkinson’s. I have a real sense of pride in raising both vital funds and awareness.

To find out more about the Atalian Servest Charities of the Year, click here

To sponsor the team, click here .