Salford’s answer to Forrest Gump will be lacing up her tiny running shoes once more as she nears the end of her epic marathon fundraiser, and is now inviting the public to join her.
Six-year-old Holly McHugh from Warrington has been on a mission to run 26 separate miles to help her mum Sue’s London Marathon fundraising efforts for Children with Cancer UK.
The pair have raised thousands so far, with £3,443.90 on their Virgin Money Giving page alone, and now this mini marathoner is inviting people to join her on mile 22 on the Media City piazza at 4:30pm on Friday, as both a final fundraising push and a way to say thank you.
The One Direction fan invited heartthrob Louis Tomlinson to join her one of the miles, and while he was unable to attend, he instead sent her a signed t-shirt.
SUPERFAN: Holly with her signed One Direction t-shirt
“We decided to do an open mile to show how much support we have had from everyone involved,” explained Sue.
“She is like a little Forrest Gump – her efforts really seem to have captured the hearts of everyone who has followed her!”
RUN, HOLLY, RUN! Mini marathoner in action
The mile will be aired on BBC Breakfast on April 12 on the day before the London Marathon and will no doubt be an inspiration for runners all over the country.
BBC sports presenter Mike Bushell will be returning for his second mile with Holly, while Coronation Street’s Krissi Bohn (who plays Jenna Kamara in the soap) will also take part.
After signing up for the mile, Krissi sent the following message to Holly.
THIS ISN’T ONE DIRECTION! Holly listens to Mike’s running tunes
“Hi Holly, its Krissi here – I play Jenna in Coronation Street. I just wanted to say how much I am looking forward to running a mile with you next week. You’ve done so well, you’re amazing! See you Friday xxxx”
Singer-songwriter Gavin Ellis has even written a song about Holly’s challenge, which he will perform live on Friday before the runners set off.
In recent months the little superstar has racked up the miles alongside friends, family members, schoolteachers and Olympic cyclist Chris Boardman.
OLYMPIC EFFORT: Mile three of her challenge with Chris Boardman
As if that wasn’t enough support, Sainsbury’s CEO Justin King got in touch recently asking if he could join in.
He ran alongside Holly at the Warrington Wolves’ Haliwell Jones stadium – with mascot Wolfie on hand at the finish line for some cuddles.
But it’s not all hard work. After completing two miles in one day last weekend, Holly was treated to a well-deserved leg massage.
CUDDLES ALL ROUND: Holly with Warrington Wolves mascot Wolfie
As the inspirational pair eye the finishing line, Holly said she was really looking forward to completing mile 26 with Sue after she finishes her own marathon next Sunday.
“I am always thinking of the finish line in London,” said Holly. “And I am really excited to have run so far!”
For anyone who wishes to take part, simply turn up at Media City piazza at 4:30pm on Friday.
Keep up to date by visiting their Facebook page here.
You can sponsor Holly and Sue here.
Pictures courtesy of Paul McHugh, with thanks.
