Harper Adams Student To Run the Marathon

Posted 11 April 2005

A long-time Harper Adams student who lost his sight in one eye is to run the London Marathon in aid of Action for Blind People.

Jonathon Harrington, 50, began studying at the Shropshire-based University College in 1973, earning a HND in Agriculture in 1977. After spells in Rhodesia and South Africa, and time working for agricultural merchants he set up his own company specialising in crop science, before returning to Harper Adams part time to convert his HND into a degree through the University College’s negotiated studies scheme.

Now living on Herefordshire farm, between Hay and Brecon, Jonathon decided the time was ripe to tackle his next big challenge – the 26-mile London marathon, taking place this weekend.

Jonathon, known as Harry to his friends and fellow students, said: “I was given a pack of cards suggesting 50 things that should be done by everyone at least once before they die and this was one of them. As a child I lost the sight of one eye in an accident and have since then always been grateful that I could see at all, which is why I am running in aid of Action for Blind People. On the day I just hope I can finish really and preferably not behind the man in the metal diving suit! Look out for my running number, 33302, if you are watching the race on TV or even there in person.”

Anyone who would like to sponsor Jonathon can e-mail him on Jonathon@farming.co.uk.For further information on Action for the Blind go to www.afbp.org.

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Note to Editors

1. For further information contact Jonathon Harrington on 01497 847435.

2. Pic Cap: Jonathon Harrington with his inspirational pack of cards.

2. Action for Blind People enables blind and partially sighted people to transform their lives through work, housing, leisure and support.They offer a wide range of services to visually impaired people, their families, advocates, professionals and the general public. Visit www.afbp.org for further details.

3. The Harper Adams Negotiated Studies course is a flexible way of studying for a degree, on a full or part-time basis. Students design their own course from the modules on offer across Harper’s extensive programme to suit their interests and career aspirations. It is particularly suitable for those who need to fit their studies around work or childcare, or who want to top-up an HND to a full degree. The scheme is great for mature students who prefer to study part-time,and who can use credits achieved on professional short courses (such as BASIS and AMTRA courses).Work-based learning modules offer students the opportunity to carry out projects related to their work.