Children at St John’s Primary School, Midsomer Norton, were treated to a guest appearence by Kilmersdon’s Jim Plunkett-Cole, who has returned from running across America, inspired by the 1994 film, Forrest Gump. Whilst in the US, he was visiting schools to spread the message about keeping active every day, which he is now continuing with an initiative in the UK.

Taking inspiration from Robert Zemeckis’ film, Jim ran through Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas and other states, spreading the word on his love of the outdoors and running. Returning to the UK, Jim has been continuing his mission, visiting a number of schools in the local area in the past few weeks.

On 25th Septmeber, Jim ran from his home in Kilmersdon to St John’s in Midsomer Norton, to give a speech to the school, engage in activities with the children, and to go from class to class answering questions.

Jim told pupils about how he was inspired by the London 2012 Olympics, and began running daily at the age of 44. When asked by one of the children about if he’s ever broken a world record, Jim replied that he doesn’t aim to break existing records, but rather to set his own, and encouraged the children to do the same.

Other questions asked by the classes included: “How many places have you been?” and “How did you get so brave?”, relating directly to Jim’s mention of running in a thunderstorm.

He also told the children about his life with Asperger’s syndrome, his love of animals, and his dislike of custard! Jim also told the Year 4 class that visiting schools and meeting the children inspires him, saying: “It gives me more energy; more motivation. You guys keep me going.”

To find out more, visit: www.jimgump.com