More backing for Arise Sir Ray campaign

The Advertiser has written to the Cabinet Office calling for the inspirational pensioner to be knighted after completing 75 marathons in 75 days at the age of 75 earlier this year.

Now, David Greenfield - who also nominated him for the Pride of Britain award - has given his backing to our Arise Sir Ray campaign.

He said: “The commitment Ray has given to run those last few hundred yards of his 75th marathon in the grounds of Newman School began at the age of 58 when he laced up his first pair of running shoes and found his passion for running.

“His philosophy has always been that anything is possible - whatever you want to do just get your head down and do it.

“It is no exaggeration to say that Ray trained for 17 years to run his 75 marathon challenge.”

Grandad-of-three Ray completed the gruelling challenge to raise £75,000 for specialist playground facilities at Newman School, which caters for children with additional needs.

Mr Greenfield, who was manager at St Ann’s Leisure Centre where Ray trained for the challenge, has also nominated Ray for a British Citizens Award.

Ray is due to find out his fate at some point over the next few weeks and the awards ceremony will be held in London in January.

A black-tie dinner will also help Ray top up his fund-raising total.

The event will feature a question and answer session with Ray, live entertainment and a four-course meal.

It will be held at The Crown Hotel, Bawtry, on Wednesday, December 7, from 7pm.

To book tickets, which cost £50 each, call Ray on 07720 636007 or 07773 561667.

To support our Arise Sir Ray campaign visit download a template supporting letter which you can print and send to the Cabinet Office.