70-year-old completes Wrexham 10k after overcoming mobility challenges

A 70-year-old man who just seven months ago could not walk the distance of his yard without a risk of falling is celebrating after successfully completed the Wrexham 10k.

Jeffrey Chrimes took on the challenge, on Sunday 21 April, in aid of The Rainbow Foundation – the charity which helped him to regain his strength and improve his mobility, as well as having a positive impact on his overall mental health and wellbeing.

Jeffery first became involved with the charity in October 2023 when he enrolled on their free Active Futures programme, a physical health and peer support programme to combat frailty and MSK conditions promoting strength, balance, and independence in later life.

When Jeffery joined the programme, he was unable to walk long distances and had difficulty bending and lifting things.

Just seven months on, he has successfully completed the Wrexham 10k with the support from his friends and The Rainbow Foundation.

He completed the race with Active Futures Community Lead Jane Bellis.

Jefferey was cheered over the line by friends Jasmine Hulme, Katryn Levens and David Done who also completed the race on behalf of The Rainbow Foundation, as well as the other Rainbow Runners and supporters.

“This was such a great experience, and I was determined to finish,” explained Jeffrey.

“Jane was with me every step of the way and we kept each other going.

“It was very overwhelming for me as I really wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for Jasmine and Jane.”

Active Futures Lead Jane Bellis said: ‘I am so proud of the progress Jeffrey has made since joining Active Futures, his fitness has really improved.

“He has kept exercising with us after graduating by moving onto our Fit Futures classes and is now looking at volunteering with us.

“What an inspiration to others Jeffrey is, I’m so proud to have supported Jeffrey on his journey’.

At the finish line Jeffrey met Wrexham Mayor Councillor Andy Williams, who described his achievement as a “testament to the power of support, encouragement, and unwavering determination in overcoming obstacles.”

Cllr Williams said: “The recent Wrexham 10k attracted participants from across the UK, each striving to achieve personal milestones and set new records for the event.

“Among them, Jeffrey’s journey across the finish line was nothing short of extraordinary.

“While Jeffrey may have been the final runner to complete the race, in my eyes, he emerged as the ultimate victor.

“Upon congratulating him, I learned of his remarkable journey. Just seven months ago Jeffrey faced significant physical challenges, guided to The Rainbow Foundation, a dedicated team embarked on his rehabilitation journey, aiming to improve his quality of life.

“Now, at the age of 70, Jeffrey has defied the odds by completing a gruelling 10k race, renowned among seasoned runners for its challenging terrain, marked by numerous hills.

“His achievement serves as a testament to the power of support, encouragement, and unwavering determination in overcoming obstacles.

“Jeffrey, I salute you.

“You are not only an incredible individual but also a beacon of inspiration for others on their own journeys. Well done.’

Jeffrey was one of 11 Rainbow Runners who completed the Wrexham 10k on Sunday on behalf of The Rainbow Foundation.

Although at varying levels of fitness and experience, the runners included staff, clients and supporters who all embraced active ageing and took on the challenge to promote health and wellbeing across Wrexham.

The Rainbow Runners have raised over £1,000 so far through sponsorship, which will be used to ensure that the older people in our communities are able to reach their full potential and lead healthy, fulfilling lives as engaged citizens.

The Rainbow Foundation is an active ageing charity that delivers services to improve the health and wellbeing of our local communities.

Services include Day Opportunities, Home Care & Support, Rainbow Meals, Community Outreach, Social Prescribing, Community Transport and Volunteering opportunities. You can find out more on their website at: www.therainbowfoundation.org.uk