Fitness fanatic's marathon effort raised more than £3k for Fit Forces

Fundraising fanatic Teresa Hodgson raised an incredible £3,413 for Club Doncaster Foundation's veteran's programme Fit Forces thanks to her latest challenge.

Teresa embarked on a marathon which started and finished at the Eco-Power Stadium prior to the local derby between Doncaster Rovers and Barnsley on November 8.

Joined by a support team, Teresa completed the 26.2 mile route around the local area before being greeted back at the stadium by Fit Forces participants and well-wishers including former Rovers goalkeeper Jan Budtz.

And EFL title sponsors Sky Bet supported her efforts as part of their For The Fans initiative by generously doubling the funds raised.

The fixture was Rovers' designated Remembrance matchday, providing a fitting occasion for Teresa's efforts.

'This marathon was a truly meaningful run as it was around Remembrance and raised much-needed funds for Fit Forces,' Teresa said. 'I thoroughly enjoyed every mile and I'm so grateful for the support team I had.

'We had a great day, raised awareness and honoured veterans and serving military with pride.

'It was amazing to know Sky Bet supported me and my cause. I'm incredibly grateful for their support and it really made my day.'

All money raised from the challenge will support the self-funded programme, which allows veterans to access designated health and wellbeing provision for free each weekend, including use of the Foundation Fitness gym.

Fit Forces has provided tremendous physical and mental benefits for its members since the start of the project in June 2022.

Foundation health and wellbeing officer Ben Howe said Teresa is an incredible woman who we're very lucky to have part of the Foundation.

'The support she provides to the Fit Forces programme and the Foundation in general is incredible and she's always looking for the next challenge to support our programmes further,' he said.

'As part of the support team, I saw first hand the grit and determination throughout her marathon, how she kept pushing herself to the limit and all to support our programme and those within the Armed Forces community.

'Her life has revolved around the Armed Forces and her continuous efforts to give back to this community are inspirational.'