On Friday 14th June 2024, Tidyco Production Director, Phil Mason, embarked on one of his most gruelling challenges he’d ever endeavoured – to run 100 miles within the span of 24 hours. He did manage to cover 105 miles in the end over a period of 34 hours, due to a number of setbacks, which delayed him. Phil recounts his experience below:
“The point of the challenge was to raise money for the Queen’s Hospital Burton cancer treatment ward so it is great that, with the help and support of everyone, we raised in the region of £7,300 – that’s 40% over target.
“I want to extend my thanks to Tidyco, our customers and suppliers, who have all been financially generous with their support.
“The day itself, and the preparation that went into the day, went to plan but what I did not predict was the awful weather on the evening. For anyone who was keeping track of me on Strava, you may well have seen I hit the 50-mile mark within the 12 hours as expected. It wasn’t until early evening the trouble started when the heavens opened.
“This was a turning point; I had to make the decision to push on and risk injury or worse, or focus on finishing and with the hope of being able to raise more money.
“Having hit my head on a bridge and then on a branch in the dark, self-preservation seemed the sensible option.
“Recognition must be given to my youngest son Jordan, and his great efforts to keep me motivated, by running 50 miles with me. And Lisa Richards from Dains, who not only generously sponsored my cause but also did the last 25 miles with me.
“My wife, Mandy, and Kathryn my daughter, were also on hand with food and water throughout the challenge, keeping me motivated and sustained. Also having the support from my grandchildren, son-in-law, other family members, friends and workmates was a great help throughout the challenge.
“Having completed a total of 105 miles and raising £7,300 I think the event was a success. The time taken was longer than my initial plan, but it was for a very worthy cause.
“If you were to ask me if I would do something like this again, then that depends on who is asking but I always say; never say never!”
A cheque-giving presentation took place on Friday 5th July at the Cancer Services department of Burton Hospital. A number of Tidyco staff, family members and hospital staff were in attendance – notably Sharon and Barry – both Tidyco employees who have both been under the diligent and compassionate care of Burton-based staff.
Vicky Carey, Derby & Burton Hospitals Charity Fundraising Officer and Jill Matthews, the charity’s Chief Officer were also there to take part. In conversation with Jill, she had this to say: “We are incredibly thankful to individuals like Phil who dedicate their time to undertake such amazing challenges in support of our charity. For Phil to train, and then run such a long distance, for the benefit of those patients undergoing treatment for cancer is incredibly kind and inspiring. The £7,300 raised will be used to buy equipment and improve patient comfort during the time patients spend at the hospital. It will make a huge difference to patients and we are truly grateful.”
Phil is no stranger to demanding feats of stamina, completing the Isle of Wight challenge in 2018, which saw Phil run the circumference of the Isle of Wight (66 miles) within 24 hours. “When we asked Phil about his motivation, he revealed this: Two colleagues at Tidyco have unfortunately had cancer diagnoses and they have both received excellent care by the Cancer Services staff at Burton Hospital and I wanted to give back so that they may carry on supporting and helping their patients.”
The money raised will be put towards state-of-the-art oncology chairs which can be adjusted for patient comfort along with other life-affirming equipment such as cold caps which help prevent hair loss for those undergoing treatment for cancer.
