Hermitage family to run Great South Run

The Collett family are running for a charity which helped their relative after a car crash

A HERMITAGE family are preparing to take part in the Great South Run to raise money for a charity that helped a relative who was left in a wheelchair following a car accident.

The Collett family are no strangers to competition with dad, Matthew, aged 37, having competed in both the London Marathon and Great South Run in 2010.

He will be joined by his wife, Caroline, and two children, Christian, aged 8, and Jessica, aged 5, who will run in the 1.5km mini-run in October.

Christian is also an experienced runner, having recently represented Hermitage Primary School in the inter school cross-country relay where his team came second.

The family will be running the Great South Run for national charity Canine Partners, who provide specially trained assistance dogs to help people with disabilities.

It is a cause close to Mr Collett's heart because the charity provided his mother, Sheila Sadler, with a dog called Kerly following a road traffic incident which left her in a wheelchair.

Mr Collett said: “Kerly has transformed my mum's life. "Thanks to the dedication and commitment of the Canine Partners team who are a true inspiration.”

To sponsor the family before the race on October 30 visit http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/MattCollettgreatsouthrun

Alternatively, to run in the race for Canine Partners call Jill Green on 01730 716014.