Staff at allpay worked up a sweat last week when they took to Hereford’s roads and racecourse in support of their local hospice, St Michael’s.

10 staff in total took part in the annual St.Michael’s Hospice Hereford Half Marathon and Fun Run, which saw a field of over 800 runners run in this local fundraising event.

James Upcott, Direct Debit Administrator at allpay, beat off fierce competition in the Fun Run – a lap around Hereford’s racecourse - to win the race in an impressive 8 minutes and 40 seconds. He was awarded with a golden boot! His colleague, Sam Duggan, crossed the line not far behind the winner to secure third position.

The three half marathon runners from allpay successfully completed the 13 mile course in respective times – Mark Hill (2:14:02) Rob Imms (2:20:00) and Liss Morris (3:20:00).

Over £500 was raised by the allpay team which goes to support St. Michael’s Hospice in carrying out such essential work in the county.

Melissa Morris, runner from team allpay comments,

Doing the St. Michael’s half marathon was a huge personal challenge for me and it didn’t disappoint. It was hot and the 13 ½ miles seemed to take forever, but I had a fantastic day!

She continues,

St. Michael’s is such an important part of the community here in Herefordshire and does such wonderful work – that’s what kept me going and I’m so glad I did it for them. I’ve been converted and will do it next year too!

The fun runners are setting themselves a harder challenge in next year’s race and are preparing to enter as a team in the half marathon relay.