A REAL sport — that’s teacher Karen Shaw who is putting her best foot forward to take the long way home for today’s marathon fundraising.

Mrs Shaw, Bolton School reception teacher, is putting on her walking shoes in support of Sport Relief as she prepares to trek 13 miles home after finishing work today in a bid to raise £1,000.

She will walk from Bolton to Withnell. She is being supported in her challenge by her class who have been giving her words of encouragement throughout the week and is being spurred on by the money she has already collected through sponsorship.

Mrs Shaw said: “Sport Relief has always been a charity very close to my heart as the money raised changes so many lives worldwide. I have been thinking about doing this challenge for a few years and as this year is ‘The Billion Step Challenge’ it seemed to be the perfect time.

“I have been overwhelmed by the support and encouragement I have received from children, parents and colleagues, with sponsors already totalling £710.

“This has made me even more keen to complete the challenge and I’m excited to get going. I will also have the support of my husband and son who will be doing the challenge alongside me.”

Mrs Shaw is one of scores of people throughout Bolton raising money for Sport Relief to help vulnerable people in the UK and across the world live happier, healthier, safer lives. She can be sponsored by visiting https://my.sportrelief.com/sponsor/karenshaw1440805

Children from Heathfield Primary School in Daubhill and St Peter and St Paul’s RC Primary in Bolton will be taking part in a virtual cycle from the town to Bolton at Sainsbury’s supermarket in a bid to raise bags of money.

They will be using exercise bikes, loaned by Decathlon, to clock up the miles. Staff from the Bolton store will also be cycling throughout the day.

Cllr Martin Donaghy, who works at the store, said: “It was the store manager’s idea because he is a keen cyclist and it all started from there.

“I hope shoppers cheer them on in support and also provide practical support by donating in the buckets.”

Famous local faces will also be playing their part, with Sara Cox battling it out on the water in the Clash of the Channels boat race. She will be part of the BBC team racing ITV. Paddy McGuinness will be on a special edition of a Question of Sport.

n Are you doing anything for Sport Relief?Send your pictures and videos to pictures@theboltonnews.co.uk