MP scores his marathon goal

And, NE Bedfordshire MP Alistair Burt has also beaten his own fundraising challenge this year as more than £10,000 came in to be split between his two chosen good causes.

Mr Burt is dividing the money raised between Sue Ryder St Johns Hospice, and Combat Stress

He said; ‘I set out in hope towards the £10,000 target and it has crept over the line to £10,003.40.

“I am so delighted to have been able to raise this money, which is nearly £12,000 with gift aid included, for two such amazing charities. “

Mr Burt made a promise to the St John’s Hospice that he would raise £10,000 for it when he rain his last marathon in 2008.

He said: “I raised half then, and am delighted to have completed the task now.”

His second charity Combat Stress is the UK’s leading Veterans’ mental health charity.

“Mental ill-health affects ex-Service men and women of all ages,” Mr Burt said.

“Combat Stress is currently supporting more than 5,900 Veterans aged from 19 to 97 – a vital lifeline for these men and women, and their families.

“Treatment and support services are always free of charge, and are proven to work, so I am delighted to have been able to support in this way.”

It has taken Mr Burt more than 40 years to achieve his personal goal of running ten marathons, each one as an elected MP.

And with the support of friends, family and others he has been able to reach his charitable target.

He said: “Thank you so much to EVERYONE who supported me in this endeavour – I am truly grateful for every donation big and small.”

Mr Burt’s fundraising page will remain open for a few more weeks.

To make a donation go to http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/AlistairBurtMP-NEBeds