Barry runs through pain barrier for disabled kids (From Basingstoke Gazette)

Barry runs through pain barrier for disabled kids

11:21am Friday 7th September 2012 in Romsey

YOUNG people with disabilities will benefit from one man’s mammoth challenge.

Barry Hughes completed a 33-mile run between four Test Valley leisure centres.

The challenge began at Knightwood Leisure Centre, in Valley Park, before visiting The Rapids, in Romsey, Charlton Lakeside Pavilion, in Andover, and finishing at Andover Leisure Centre.

So far Barry, 43, has raised £800 to support taster sessions at Romsey Rapids and regular activities provided at Andover Leisure Centre which give youngsters with disabilities or learning difficulties the chance to get fit and gain confidence.

The scheme, run with Mencap and Parent Voice, also gives parents some time to themselves.

Barry, a keen runner and parent-of-two, finished the course in five hours, 14 minutes and 29 seconds. He was accompanied on the first five miles by Valley Leisure’s customer engagement manager, Neil Barker.

The veteran of five marathons found the challenge harder than he expected, especially when he experienced trouble with his hamstrings at the 18-mile mark, near Middle Wallop.

“I managed to get the legs moving again and took it 10 minutes at a time,” said Barry, an HR project manager with Vodafone in Newbury, who lives near Andover. “It was a real challenge, but for a great cause,” he said.

To donate £2 to the challenge, text BHSM99 £2 to 70070, or you can donate more by changing the amount.

For more information about Romsey taster sessions, call 01794 835555.