Father and daughterjust keep on running

The 2016 London Marathon certainly proved to be a case of family fortunes for retired Belchford resident Pete Cotton.
Dad Pete Cotton and daughter Tracy Gostelow after completing the London Marathon EMN-160426-153650001Dad Pete Cotton and daughter Tracy Gostelow after completing the London Marathon EMN-160426-153650001
Dad Pete Cotton and daughter Tracy Gostelow after completing the London Marathon EMN-160426-153650001

The 67-year-old completed the course running alongside daughter Tracy Gostelow (37) - and raised more than £4,200 for charity in the process.

Pete and Tracy took part to generate funds for The Lullaby Trust.

They covered the 26.2 miles in memory of Pete’s daughter and Tracy’s sister, Samantha, who passed away from Sudden Infant Deaths Syndrome (SIDS), aged just 13 weeks.

Pete and Tracy crossed the finish line close together - Pete in a time of 5:54 and Tracy in a time of 5:42.

And it was certainly a triumph for Peter who had to have treatment for a knee injury after 19 miles.

Tracy, a teacher at Lacey Garden Junior School in Louth, said: “The crowds and support along the whole route were incredible with everyone cheering.

“Dad did pick up a small injury which meant a visit to medics at mile 19.

“It was tough at times, particularly the last few miles but pain is temporary, memories last a lifetime!”

The Lullaby Trust works tirelessly to promote safer sleep for babies, and provide support for families shattered by SIDS.

The charity also provides advice to new parents and supports bereaved 
family members.

Tracy added: “We wanted to raise as much money as possible.

“It was an amazing experience, especially with that overwhelming support from the crowds.

“I suppose it was run in ‘perfect’ conditions, although I do seem to 
have returned with random sun tan lines.

“Despite the mass of runners - and a trip to St. John Ambulance with dad’s dodgy and painful knee - we were delighted to have completed the race together.

“Dad’s aim was to finish within six hours; mission accomplished with a chip time of 5:54.

“My aim was to finish with him; mission accomplished in a chip time of 5:42. I was certainly very proud.

“We’d like to thank our family and friends who have supported 
us in this challenge.”

○Donations can still be made at www. justgiving.com/peterandtracy