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Daughters join 'Blind Dave' for marathon farewell

John Bray
BBC News, Meriden
BBC Four people wearing navy running gear. The outfits have their names and Pertemps Network written on them. The names are Dannie, Georgie, Blind Dave and GraceBBC
Ready for the start line - 'Blind Dave' and his daughters

A blind Black Country fundraiser, who has completed the London Marathon 16 times, is training hard for his last-ever run around the streets of the capital.

And West Bromwich's "Blind Dave" Heeley will be joined for the marathon finale by his three daughters, who will all be running in their first.

The group hope to raise at least £20,000 for the Albion Foundation, the charitable arm of West Bromwich Albion, which supports young people across Sandwell.

"I'm sad that this is my last London Marathon, but I'm not getting any younger so it's the right time," said the 67-year-old, who has had two knee replacements. "But I'm so proud and happy that my three girls will be running with me."

Six people, three men and three women, stood in front of a large bronze horse sculpture. The two men in the middle, one in a blue running kit with Blind Dave written on it and one in a cream waistcoat suit are shaking hands.
'Blind Dave' and his daughters met up with Pertemps president Tim Watts and head of marketing and sponsorship Tim Jones at Meriden Hall

Mr Heeley's fundraising exploits, which have included swimming to San Francisco from Alcatraz through shark-infested waters and running seven marathons in seven days on seven continents, have been supported by Meriden-based recruitment company Pertemps.

"We have always been happy to support the right cause," said Pertemps president Tim Watts.

"Dave's attitude is incredible and I admire him very much."

Mr Heeley said: "I really appreciate what Pertemps have done for me and Tim has always supported me. Hopefully it makes a huge difference to the young people that we're trying to help."

Dave Heeley Two men in blue and white halved running shirts smile at the camera. One is wearing a black bandana. There are lots of people behind them.Dave Heeley
'Blind Dave' on the London Marathon start line in 2019 with his long-time friend and running guide Tony Ellis

Mr Heeley's first London Marathon was in 2002 with a finish time of four hours, 16 minutes.

His quickest London Marathon was three hours, 24 minutes. He hopes to complete the 2025 event within five hours.

"The London Marathon is incredible," he said. "It's a carnival atmosphere from start to finish."

All three of his daughters said they were "very proud" to be joining their dad on Sunday 27 April, but admitted to feelings of trepidation at the move from 5km and 10km distances to a full marathon as they fit in training around their work.

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