A WIRRAL solicitor is taking on some of the toughest races in the world as part of an 18-month fundraiser for people whose lives are affected by asbestos-related disease.
Joe Skinner, a senior partner at JM Skinner & Co, specialises in compensation claims for asbestos victims and is undertaking the challenge with the support of the British Lung Foundation to raise awareness – and thousands of pounds.
Mr Skinner completed the Great North Run last weekend and
will run the Dublin Marathon at the end of this month.
Next year, he will do the same in Paris, London, Edinburgh, Berlin, Chicago, New York, the Himalayas, and finally in April 2009, the notorious Marathon de Sables, or Sand Marathon, which is the equivalent of running six marathons in six days and is considered the world’s most gruelling endurance test.
The 45-year-old father of three said he began running when his days on the rugby pitch became numbered.
He said: “I’m a native Merseysider. I grew up family and friends who’ve worked on the docks and in the Merchant Navy so these issues are very close to home, and I have also acted for many claimants and their widows over the years.
“The claims process can be very difficult and along the way you have to work closely to overcome the many obstacles raised by insurers and this has often resulted in lasting friendships�.
For more information on Mr Skinner’s progress and how to sponsor him, visit the firm’s website at www.jmskinner.co.uk.