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On Sunday 8th September, I will be joining a group of wine trade runners taking part in this year’s Run Bacchus Half Marathon, Britain’s answer to the Marathon du Médoc, to help raise awareness and much-needed funds for The Benevolent. 

Having worked for The Benevolent, I am keen to support the charity which helps colleagues from the drinks industry facing serious medical or financial hardship or any other workplace or home difficulties. Founded in 1886, The Benevolent continues to be at the heart of the UK drinks industry and is the only charity supporting employees
from every sector of the drinks trade, no matter where they were employed or what their personal situation. 

Following the successful mental health #notalone campaign, The Benevolent continues to promote mental wellbeing within the drinks industry. The helpline was set up in 2017 to provide confidential access to support mental health and wellbeing issues on 0800 9154610, and in 2018, the helpline assisted at least one colleague a day. We are aiming to raise significant funds towards the running of this vital helpline which costs £20,000 per annum.

The team will tackle the challenging and hilly course through the North Downs. The run combines two of the world’s finest pleasures: running in the great British outdoors and fine wine. The event starts and finishes at Denbies Wine Estate near Dorking, Surrey, with half the course inside the beautiful estate and the other half passing through National Trust countryside and woodland along the Pilgrims Way and North Downs Way. With five refreshment opportunities (including wine) and live bands along the 13.1-mile route, as well as fancy dress being de rigueur!
In theory this all sounds fantastic but it's my FIRST EVER half marathon and there are hills to contend with....your support means a lot to me and the charity.

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