Time Is Precious, a local charity which helps to improve the environment and facilities for seriously ill and disabled children whilst in hospital and at home, are taking part in the Bath Half Marathon for the seventh time this Sunday, along with three special guests.

Nicky Halford, who established Time is Precious with her husband, Neil, in memory of their son, Ben, said: “Time Is Precious has been participating in the Bath Half for seven years now. We started off with a small team of just ten places and have grown to 140 this year! We pride ourselves in this amazingly well-organised event, ‘going that extra mile’ to support our runners in any way we can.

“Last year, one of our qualified coaches came up with the magnificent idea of working with the Bath Half team to enable children who have benefitted from Time Is Precious to be pushed around the fabulous course. We are honoured to be able to make this happen, and we have three children being pushed around on the day.”

Seven-year-old Devon, from Midsomer Norton, who is undergoing treat for leukaemia, will be pushed by his mum, Nicola, and Laura Hoddinott – one of the qualified Time is Precious coaches who thought of the idea.

Six-year-old Ellie, from Shepton Mallet, who has a heart defect, will be pushed by a family friend and another qualified coach, Jim Barron. Five-year-old Harmonie, from Bath, who lost all her limbs from meningitis, will be pushed by her auntie and friends.

Nicky continued: “They all have a small team with them, however, as usual, we will be out in force with our loud, cheering voices. We have purchased special running chairs specifically for this event, and have all been out training for the 13.1 mile route, so we are all are prepared for the big day! We would like to thank Bath Half for this amazing opportunity.”

Devon was diagnosed with leukaemia last year, and is currently undergoing intense treatment. He is in and out of hospital for chemotherapy, blood transfusions and antibiotics when his bloods are low, and therefore picks up infections with ease. Devon has already had a bone marrow transplant.

Devon’s mother, Nicola, has previously run for Time Is Precious, but never thought she’d be using the equipment and facilities that Time Is Precious has supplied, that she helped raise funds for herself.

Nicola said: “You never know what is around the corner. Devon is an amazing little boy, who doesn’t moan about the treatment and keeps us going. For Devon to have been asked by Nicky to be pushed around the Bath Half is a privilege.”