Joey hops to it for charity run

Nigel Whitworth, dressed as a kangaroo, with St Joseph’s School pupils Annabel Flanagan, Olivia Askew, Megan Whitworth and Sophia Norbury

AN Oldham school mascot will be “hopping” to make it across the finish line of the BUPA Great Manchester Run.

Joey the Kangaroo, also known as Nigel Whitworth, regularly appears at sporting events supporting teams from St Joseph’s Primary School, Shaw.

But on Sunday, Nigel will be donning his furry suit and pounding the Manchester pavements during the fundraising 10k event.

Mr Whitworth, whose children Megan (11) and Callum (9) attend St Joseph’s, decided to take up the challenge following a bet by the school running team.

The 44-year-old PTA member said: “I’m not a runner so I’m hoping to get round the course in an hour and a half. The kangaroo suit is quite claustrophobic so I’m looking for a grey Manchester day rather than blazing sunshine.

“There are 70 pupils taking part in the mini run at the City of Manchester Stadium tomorrow, and they will all be supporting me on the day.”

Mr Whitworth is aiming to raise £500 to split between the school and the Alzheimer’s Society.

Anyone wanting to make a donation should visit www.justgiving.com/joeythekangeroo