A dedicated police officer and loving father, PC Ian Milbourne, is embarking on an incredible charity challenge to raise funds for a cause that provides vital support for his son, who suffers from an extremely rare illness. Known as Jackie after the late Newcastle United footballer, PC Milbourne will attempt to run an astounding seven marathons in just seven days.
The purpose of this remarkable feat is to raise money for Amy and Friends, a charity that offers support to children living with Trichothiodystrophy (TTD), a rare genetic condition that affects PC Milbourne’s 11-year-old son, Cameron. At the time of Cameron’s diagnosis, he was one of only around 200 children worldwide with an official diagnosis of this condition.
Amy and Friends provides a lifeline for families affected by TTD, hosting an annual conference where they can meet and offering essential assistance, including covering travel costs for medical treatment in different areas of the country.
This charity challenge follows PC Milbourne’s achievement of completing 30 half marathons in 30 days last year, which raised over £5,500. Starting on Monday, October 23, and concluding on Sunday, October 29, at Ashington Cricket Club, PC Milbourne will embark on his daily marathon routes through Wylam, Newcastle, and Gateshead.
Expressing his anticipation for the challenge ahead, PC Milbourne, who is married to Sarah and has two daughters in addition to Cameron, acknowledges the difficulty of the task but emphasises its importance for such a worthy cause. He shares, “The choice for this year’s challenge was to either do the marathons or jump out of a plane, so I was happy to do the running! But anything I can do to support Amy and Friends I will consider because it’s been such an amazing support to our family and so many others.”
Following the conclusion of PC Milbourne’s challenge, Ashington Cricket Club will host a Halloween-themed celebration event, encouraging attendees to come dressed in fancy dress. The event will include various activities such as barmy bingo, a disco, and games for children. PC Milbourne is expected to complete the challenge at 5pm on Sunday, October 29, with spectators encouraged to gather at 4.45pm to cheer him over the finish line.
Expressing his immense gratitude, PC Milbourne thanks the public and his policing colleagues for their support, with nearly £2,000 already raised towards his £7,000 target. He adds, “To anybody who has donated or is going to, please be aware that it is greatly appreciated.” PC Milbourne also extends his thanks to his colleague Greg Williams, who plays cricket for Ashington, and the club itself for organising the post-challenge event.
This inspiring act of PC Milbourne exemplifies the dedication exhibited by Northumbria officers, both personally and professionally. To donate to PC Milbourne’s appeal and support Amy and Friends, please visit Sarah-ann Bennett-milbourne’s fundraising page on JustGiving.com.
