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Black Isle man (65) inspired by cancer battler lass set for second half marathon in a week


By Hector MacKenzie

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Russell Turner is now gearing up for his next 'training' run ahead of his big effort for Ailsa.
Russell Turner is now gearing up for his next 'training' run ahead of his big effort for Ailsa.

A BLACK Isle man inspired by the pluck of a ten-year-old who lost an arm to bone cancer is preparing for his second half marathon in a week to help a cause close the hearts of her loved ones.

And after that “training” exercise is done this weekend, Russell Turner (65) can concentrate on two fundraising challenges that lie ahead.

As reported last week, he’s raising money for the charity Young Lives vs Cancer which has helped the family of Ailsa Fraser (10) cope with repeated visits to and extended stays in Glasgow where the youngster has been undergoing chemotherapy after surgery made necessary by a diagnosis of osteosarcoma last year.

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Ailsa
Ailsa

Mr Turner, whose City Limits band mate Keith Robinson is Ailsa’s mum Gayle’s partner, is tackling the London Landmarks Half Marathon on April 7 and the Virtual London Marathon, from Glen Affric to Kilmorack, two weeks later for the cause.

To get ready, he tackled the Inverness Half Marathon last weekend and will be covering a similar distance in Alloa this weekend.

Despite chillier than expected weather, he said last Sunday was “a good day” and brought a couple of unexpected donations the way of his cause. He said: “The marshals, other volunteers and the spectators who braved the cold to cheer us on were brilliant. It does make a difference.”

Of this Sunday’s Alloa Half, he said: “Really, it’s just another training run before the London Landmarks Half Marathon and Virtual London Marathon in April.My fundraising target is £1000. I’ve now passed £600 so I’m cautiously optimistic I’ll hit the target by marathon day. The band plays at Gellions on Friday, so if anyone wants to hand over any cash, you know where to find me.”

Sponsor Russell via this link https://www.justgiving.com/page/bassman66


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