Father taking on running challenges to raise cash for Y Perform group

Stephen Blackford took part in the Great North Run on Sunday and will be running in the Yorkshire Marathon on Sunday, October 19 as a tribute to daughter Chelsea Blue, who sadly passed away in April 2021 while at Cygnet Mental Health Hospital.

He will be raising funds for Y Perform in Scarborough, a musical theatre group for youngsters.

Mr Blackford will be running dressed as a pantomime dame – an outfit chosen by the kids at Y Perform.

Two of his daughters, Madison, 17, and Scarlet, 8, attend the group, and he believes that it has provided them with a safe space to thrive.

However, because he is a second mate on a multi-role offshore support vessel, he has found training for the events difficult.

He uses a treadmill to prepare himself for the challenges, which can be very hard during rough weather.

Mr Blackford has set up a JustGiving page with a fundraising target of £1,500.

He originally looked to bring in £1,000 but soared past this landmark thanks to donations from 81 supporters. The total currently stands at £1,244.

Go to tinyurl.com/kt88uubv to support his campaign.

Mr Blackford said: “I have taken a break from fundraising as I attended marine college and needed some time out.

"The first few years after Chelsea’s death were very busy and I didn’t realise what had really happened, so I guess grief hit me then.

"I’m OK now and when I sit back I am proud at how well my other four daughters have fared since losing their big sister.

"Two of my daughters are attending a musical theatre group called Y Perform in Scarborough.

"I believe that it provided them with a safe space to be whoever they wanted to be, learning new skills, not only on the stage but key skills for life – giving them confidence to be on a big stage and making forever friendships.

“Clubs like this are very important and sometimes overlooked when it comes to a child’s wellbeing – that’s why I’m raising funds for Y Perform.”