Local fundraiser, Karen Rees Roberts from Pwllheli completed the London virtual marathon back in October, raising over £4000 for two worthy causes: Gafael Llaw and Scope.

Karen, who has been raising money for charities for years, had been training for the London Marathon that was due to take place in April. As with numerous sporting events, it was postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic, with the virtual event taking place on 4 October.

On one of the wettest and windiest days of 2020, Karen and her family braved the elements, hiking a 26.2-mile route around the Llŷn Peninsula.

Despite the weather, Karen had a great day: “I was disappointed not being able to run the Marathon as planned in April. However, the virtual marathon was a new and different experience for me and what was great, was having my family with me, keeping me company along the way. We had a really good day.

“Although my fundraising plans we’re effected by the pandemic, for example we had to cancel some events we had planned for March, I’m really proud of the amount of money raised. My friends, family, customers and the Pwllheli community really came together and once again showed their kindness and generosity. Thank you for supporting me and two important charities. I’m hoping to apply for a place again and actually run the marathon in London next time!”

Karen was keen to raise money for a local Charity, as well as Scope. A friend told her about Caernarfon based charity, Gafael Llaw.

Gafael Llaw Chairman, Iwan Trefor Jones said: “We’re really grateful to Karen and the people of Pwllheli for their support. We support children and families living in Gwynedd and Anglesey so it’s great to see Gafael Llaw growing and becoming known in new areas of the county.

“It’s been a challenging year for the charity sector, with numerous events being cancelled, but thanks to people like Karen we have been able to continue supporting Ysbyty Gwynedd and Alder Hey hospital at such a critical and crucial time for the NHS. We’ve provided specially designed PPE for staff, gifts packs for young patients and 15 laptops which enabled Alder Hey staff to work from home, continuing their care and support for north Wales patients throughout the pandemic.”