Jarrow teenager runs 100k to support Poppy Appeal as he dreams of joining Royal Navy

A teenager who is gunning to join the Royal Navy has run 100km to show his support for armed forces veterans.
Zak Livingstone, 16Zak Livingstone, 16
Zak Livingstone, 16

Zak Livingstone, 16, from Jarrow, ran some 62 miles with the aim of raising £100 for the Royal British Legion – but smashed his target by raking in a grand total of £435 for the Poppy Appeal.

Zak, who is a member of the Jarrow Sea Cadets, is a fitness fanatic who goes running most days.

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He decided he wanted a way to give something back to a cause close to his heart while taking part in his sporty pursuit, particularly with the pandemic making 2020 a challenging year for everyone in the UK.

Zak running for the Royal British LegionZak running for the Royal British Legion
Zak running for the Royal British Legion

Zak was desperate to support the Royal British Legion in their efforts to help veterans facing difficulties due to the coronavirus crisis, something which made his Mum Debbie Livingstone very proud.

She said: “I'm extremely proud of him. Following the covid restrictions, he's done fantastic and come a long way since leaving school early. He's a kind caring young man and with his hard work and dedication he'll do well in his chosen career.

“His college and the Jarrow Sea Cadets are extremely proud of him too. He’s an inspiration.”

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Zac took on the challenge as part of the My Poppy Run in aid of the Royal British Legion.

The event usually takes place in the form of running events up and down the country, but this year was done virtually, with participants running on their own to adhere to social-distancing advice.

After leaving school earlier this year, Zak has future ambitions to serve his country as part of the Royal Navy as a marine engineer.

The Poppy Appeal was founded to help those in need following a national crisis.

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The organisation been supporting the Armed Forces community for almost 100 years. with the Legion working tirelessly to ensure that those who have served and made sacrifices for along with their families, are being looked after.

The My Poppy Run virtual fundraiser is still ongoing until November 30 2020. Anyone wishing to learn more or sign up can visit: https://www.britishlegion.org.uk/get-involved/things-to-do/events/my-poppy-run

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