By Leicester Mercury | Posted 19 October, 2017
It’s hard enough to run a marathon, let alone with bare feet, but that’s exactly what Bob Allsopp did in aid of LOROS at the weekend.
Far from being a fundraising gimmick, however, the 42-year-old engineer, says he just prefers running without shoes and so that’s exactly what he did during Leicester Marathon on Sunday.
In fact, Bob, has been running barefoot for the past six years after finding he had a few niggling knee injuries.
“I tried running with minimalist running shoes but in the end discarded them after doing a bit of research.
"It’s just the way I prefer to run now and I have far less injuries.”
Bob admits this unusual decision means he has to keep a close eye on what’s coming up ahead.
“No-one wants to step in dog poo or a pebble,” he said.
“I live in Market Harborough these days and, when I first started running without shoes, I must admit I got a fair few looks and comments.
"But it’s a relatively small place and I think people are just used to seeing me that way now.”
Bob, who grew up in Leicester, ran the marathon in memory of his dad, Steve, who passed away last year from a lung condition.
“Dad moved into LOROS hospice at the end and the care he received there was amazing.
"It was such a positive place to be. It raised his spirits and so I wanted to give something back.”
Bob has so far raised just under £1,000 for the Leicester-based charity which helps care for terminally ill patients.
He said: “The atmosphere along the route really did help.
"I thought I might end up walking after 20 miles or so but I managed to run all the way.”
Leicester’s was the seventh marathon Bob has run and he completed it in four hours and 16 minutes.
“I’m really pleased by how much I’ve raised and if anyone else wishes to donate then they can find me on the JustGiving website,” he said.
To donate, click here.
