Dad Joe will be running the Newtown 10K next month in memory of his daughter Amy who died suddenly in 2015.

Joe Varley’s daughter Amy took her life aged 23, and Joe has been supported by the counsellors at Hope House ever since.

“It was a complete shock when Amy died for myself and her partner Jake, and all her friends and family. I honestly don’t know what I would have done without Hope House,” said Joe. “I really can’t speak highly enough of all the support and help they have given me through counselling.

“I just wanted to give something back and help other families get support when they need it.”

Joe will be joined on the run by Amy’s two best friends Claire Evans and Emma Jones.

You can sponsor the trio here

“They were always together those three and they were so close - it was only right that we did the run together,” said Joe, 55.

A challenge

Joe, who runs Varley’s of Newtown, has recently started training having never previously been a runner.

“It’s not been that easy,” he said. “But I’ve done my first ever 5K run now and I’m determined that I will be able to finish the full 10K come the event.”

The Newtown 10K is on 21^st May and will see runners go on a 10K route along the banks of the River Severn.

Sign up for the Newtown 10K

“If anyone can donate and help us raise as much money as possible for both Hope House and Mind, then that would be very much appreciated,” added Joe.

Our fundraiser Bekki said: “We are so grateful to Joe, Emma and Claire for running the Newtown 10K to raise money and help us be here for the children and families that need us.

“Good luck Joe on your first 10K, we’ll all be cheering you on!”