Campaigner against domestic abuse to run 48 miles in 48 hours for Salford Women’s Aid

A campaigner against domestic abuse is aiming to run 4 miles every 4 hours for 48 hours to raise money for domestic abuse charity Salford Women’s Aid.

The charity focuses on all people affected by domestic abuse, be that men women or children and aim to provide advice, information, and support to those who need it.

Astley-born Iain Burt said his reasoning for the charity run was mainly due to the rise in domestic violence since the lockdown and charities having to work extra hard.

He continued: “Everyone seemed to be raising money for NHS so I thought why not raise it for a charity that really need it more than ever?”

Thanks to everyone who's donated so far 😊just over two weeks until I do the challenge 🏃‍♂️keep the donations coming in and please share if you can
Thanks xxhttps://t.co/gJc7phs6iS pic.twitter.com/OnA4pVtzc7

— Iain Burt AKA Astley man (@BurtioBassetto) April 16, 2020

Earlier this month the National Domestic Abuse Helpline reported an increase of 25 per cent in calls relating to domestic abuse.

The UK lockdown has led to most people being told to stay home which means victims are trapped with their abusers. This has resulted in an increase in abuse for men, women and sometimes even children.

Have you or someone close to you been affected by domestic abuse?

— Benjamin Esson (@EssonBenjamin) April 21, 2020

Burt currently has set a target of £1,750 to be raised, but he believes that the target could be increased: “My target was £500 but I’ve upped it twice due to the good response, I’m happy with whatever I get but I suppose as time goes on I really wanna push it to see just how much I can raise.”

Though Burt is not a running enthusiast, he believes he has a good chance of completing the tiresome trek: “I’d say I’m a relatively fit person for 38 years of age. I still play amateur football on a Saturday and although I’m probably not a bad runner, I don’t like it one bit!”

To donate, go to Iain’s Just Giving page here

Any victims of domestic abuse, can find help through the National Domestic Abuse Helpline or by calling 0808 2000 247