So I do not run. I cannot run. BUT somehow, in 2 weeks, I am going to attempt to run 5km for the Equality Network. 

I've been talked into this madness by Craig, founder of the Good Times Running Club, an all inclusive club for all people and all abilities to get together and enjoy a run, followed by a pint and a chat. 

The Good Times Running Club is participating in this rainbow run to raise funds for the Equality Network, a charity very dear to my heart, working in Scotland with LGBTQ+ organisations and with the government, researching, reporting and influencing policy making to create a fair society where everyone has the same rights and opportunities. Their work is particularly important at this time when there is so much hostility towards the trans community. 

The Dreadnought pub (which I manage) has been supporting the Equality Network through our 'Gayz Onley' charity fundraisers during Pride Month this year and last. Gayz Onley is our pop up Pride bar, which lasts throughout June, and was inspired by the crap graffiti which appeared on the pub. We wanted to create a safe environment where all could feel safe and welcome, regardless of gender or sexual orientation. We wanted to do something that made this commitment permanent and year round, so we created the Pride Bridge beer garden, transforming a derelict bridge covered in graffiti and litter into a rainbow coloured, vibrant community space. This run aims to raise cash for the Equality Network and also to support the Pride Bridge as an important community space and LGBTQ+ monument. 

I know that many of you who are close by have already been so supportive of the Gayz Onley fundraiser last month and so I am looking much more for your participation than your pennies. Visibility and moral support are also very important! 

The Good Times Running Club is open to all ages, genders, abilities etc and if you would like to get involved, this is for you! If not, please consider throwing a few pennies our way ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜🤎🖤🏳️‍🌈