I ran the Manchester 10k in memory of Robert Heyes, who suffered a cardiac arrest and died last year. Robert was a good friend to me when I lived in Manchester a few years ago, I always found his company easy, and his character warm, witty and caring. When I heard about the fundraising for CRY and a local heart screening session I wanted to help. I used to run when I was younger but not really done any serious running for a number of years. I started to get changed into my running gear at work, and get off the bus home and run the last part of the journey, gradually getting off the bus earlier and earlier as I gained strength and fitness!

On the day of the 10k I was feeling fairly confident, the atmosphere was brilliant, so many people running in memory of their loved ones and for such good causes, it was so inspiring! I felt proud to be running for such a good cause, CRY, and in memory of my mate, Rob. I was really pleased to finish in a good time (50 minutes) and ended up raising around £300 for the fund which I know will help towards reducing the risk of further devastating deaths. I think it was the start of a new hobby for me too and aim to beat my time at my next 10k! I would like to thank everyone who sponsored me and CRY for providing me with my fab t-shirt and sponsorship pack.

Julia Cobham