About

‘I think I’d quite like to take up running.’

‘Yes, me too. It’d be good to get fit after Christmas.’

‘I used to run but I haven’t done it for ages.’

Conversations like this probably go on in offices all over the country each January, between people full of good intentions having overdone the turkey and Quality Street.

The difference for us in January 2017 was that we were witnessed by seasoned marathon runner Kathy Dry, Age UK Surrey’s Community Support Lead.

Kathy actually took us seriously and before we had time to fashion our excuses, we found ourselves poised outside Rex House on a grey Monday lunchtime, in our dusted-off trainers, ready to start the ‘Couch to 5k’ training plan. Within just a couple of months we were running 5k in our lunch break.

Fast forward a year and not only do we feel energised, motivated, healthier, and closer as a team – we’ve committed to running the Surrey Half Marathon to raise funds to support our work with older people across the county.

It’s a huge challenge for us (13.1 miles!!) and we’re grateful for any support you can give to get us over the finish line.

Who are the Rex House Runners?

Jo Cooling – Making Connections Co-ordinator for Guildford + Waverley. I joined Age UK Surrey in 2015.

I ran a 10k race once! It was back in the 1980s when I was in my early 20’s and I vowed never again. Last October some bright spark said we needed a challenge and here we are… The Surrey Half Marathon. I’m not a natural runner and now I’m in my 50s training is very hard but being part of the Rex House ‘team’ is keeping me motivated. We’re supporting each other and are all determined to finish and raise money for Age UK Surrey.

Lesley Power – Volunteer Co-ordinator. I have been with Age UK Surrey for 6 years.

In the past I have done some 5k runs and one 10k run but this is the first attempt at a half marathon and with the support of Age UK Surrey and hopefully raising money for the charity I feel it is a worthwhile cause. Training is very hard and being over the age of 50 is a lot harder!

My 17 year old son Tiarnan Power is also running on behalf of the Charity.

Joanna Williams – Counselling Co-ordinator. I joined Age UK Surrey in October 2016.

I’ve dabbled in running on and off for the last few years but often struggle to stay motivated and keep it as part of my routine. Running as part of the Rex House ‘team’ has really helped me to keep going, and having the half marathon in sight with the goal of raising funds is even better! I love a challenge and I’m really proud of all of us for how we’re pushing ourselves for a great cause.

John Insoll – Help at Home Manager 

A steady trot best describes my running style – unfortunately, I am not a natural runner by any stretch of the imagination! I started running about a year ago in order to control my weight and whilst I haven’t actually lost any weight, I haven’t put any more on either! I run three to four times a week over a distance of about 5K, so 21K is certainly going to be a challenge, trust me!

My early morning running has not been without incident; I have been coerced into stopping on several occasions (literally run off the pavement) in order to provide directions to desperate courier drivers, seeking confirmation of their delivery address. I have also had to redirect road traffic after a minor car accident (the Police however, have still not discounted my lycra being a contributory factor!)

Appreciate your support!