Nel takes on Plymouth Half Marathon for CSRT

Nel Wilton, aged 52, will be taking on Plymouth’s Half Marathon to fundraise for Cornwall Search & Rescue Team (CSRT), in memory of her husband Del Wilton, a Paramedic who took his life in 2013. Nel praises the charity for all their hard work in helping to find and recover Mr Wilton’s body from the Hell’s Mouth in 2013, and has undertaken a number of fundraising initiatives for CSRT to keep his memory alive.

Del Wilton went missing on 15th August 2013, suffering with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), however he was not found until 1st September, as volunteers from CSRT fearlessly gave up their time around working commitments to search for Del in challenging weather conditions.

Numerous friends and family have taken part in a series of initiatives in memory of Del, including a tattoo fundraiser, and London to lands’ End cycle, however this will be the first time Nel herself has taken on Plymouth’s Half Marathon, having only taken up running at the age of 48. She said: “This year would have been Del’s 50th birthday, and his first posting was as a police officer was in Plymouth, so it seemed quite a fitting race to complete in his memory. I started running only a few years ago, but more recently I have found myself suffering from social anxiety issues, and really needed the motivation to get me back out on the roads training. It’s almost been starting from scratch again!

“I have been using the Couch to 5k training app, and training alongside my friend Sue, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2014, and will be running to celebrate completing her treatment. We’re looking forward to simply surviving, finishing and conquering our fears by taking on this amazing challenge! Sue and I will be running together all the way, and I can’t wait to share the experience with her!”

Now heading into its 23rd year, Plymouth’s Half Marathon is known for its scenic route and friendly atmosphere. The 13.1-mile journey will start and finish at The Hoe, with a varied course that boasts coastal views, the Barbican harbour and even the stunning National Trust grounds of Saltram Park.

If you feel inspired to take on the challenge of Plymouth’s Half Marathon, you too can join thousands of runners and fundraisers by signing up at www.plymouthhalfmarathon.com!