Northamptonshire Police detective completes 200km running challenge for road safety charity

Andy Cox’ challenge to complete 200km began one week ago, ticking off the miles in an effort to raise awareness of the lasting impact road collisions have on victims, families and communities, raising funds for Brake, a charity which provides specialist support to people affected by road deaths and serious injuries.

He said: “Every kilometre of this challenge has been about highlighting an issue that affects thousands of people and families every year. Far too many lives are being lost or changed forever on our roads, and the vast majority of those tragedies are preventable.

“I’ve met parents who have lost children, partners who have lost loved ones and families whose lives have been devastated in an instant. Those experiences stay with you and reinforce the need to keep pushing for safer roads.

“Driving is a privilege, not a right. Every person who gets behind the wheel has a responsibility to keep themselves and others safe.

“We should never accept road deaths as inevitable. Every fatal collision represents someone’s family member, friend, colleague or neighbour who should have returned home safely.”

Brake is a charity which offers support to families affected by road traffic collisions by raising awareness of road safety and campaigning for change, including lower speed limits, progressive licensing for young drivers, and a zero-tolerance to drink driving.

During the running challenge, Andy was able to experience the road network from a different perspective.

He said: “Running hundreds of kilometres alongside busy roads gives you a unique view of driver behaviour. Most people are responsible road users, but you still see examples of impatience, distraction and unnecessary risk-taking.

“The purpose of every journey is to arrive safely. Small decisions, whether that's putting a phone away, slowing down, wearing a seatbelt or simply being more patient, can make a huge difference.

“Brake provides vital support to people facing some of the darkest moments of their lives. Until we reach a point where nobody is killed or seriously injured on our roads, charities like Brake will remain incredibly important.

“If this challenge encourages people to think differently about their behaviour on the roads, support a victim, or take one action that makes them a safer road user, then it will have been worthwhile."

Currently, Andy’s incredible effort have raised more than £1,200 for the charity of his £1,500 goal. His fundraiser can be found online here.