Portsmouth News reporters to take on Great South Run and raise £2,500 for Rowans Hospice

The News’ reporter, Byron Melton, is running every week to prepare for the race, which he has previously reported on. Image: Dina Grinevica

REPORTERS at the Portsmouth’s daily newspaper will swap notepads for trainers and charity tabards as they take on the Great South Run.

A team of 16 staff from The News will endure the 10-mile feat on October 20 in aid of the Waterlooville charity Rowans Hospice.

It comes as the good cause aims to raise £7.5million as part of its Silver Jubilee Appeal, marking 25 years of end-of-life care.

It hopes to completely revamp its Purbrook Heath Road base with the money. Staff at The News hope to raise £2,500 for the cause.

The staff members from The News are preparing for the Great South Run on 20 October. Image: Byron Melton

The News’ Havant and Waterlooville reporter, Byron Melton, is running every week to prepare for the race, which he has previously reported on.

‘I always thought you had to be mad to want to run 10 miles, so finding myself on the other side of the barriers this year will be bizarre,’ the 23-year-old said.

‘But I’m excited to get involved and raise money for the Hospice, as they provide fundamental services for the community of Portsmouth and beyond.’

Byron says he is excited to soak up the atmosphere, seek sights and hopes the crowd will get him through the run.

The race starts and finishes in Clarence Esplanade, Southsea — taking in the dockyard, the city centre and Eastney.

Rowans Hospice is a local charity providing specialist hospice care and support to patients with life-limiting illnesses, their families and carers, throughout Portsmouth and South East Hampshire.

To donate to The News’ effort for The Rowans Hospice, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/the-news-portsmouth