Running in tribute to much-loved Steve

The Blue Sky Foundation was established following the death of Steve Newman, who worked for the Midlands News Association as a facilities manager for nearly 30 years.

It has so far raised more than £1,100 and funds will be boosted when a number of his friends take part in the race.

Runners include Phil Newman, Elliot Goode, Andrew Evans, Nathan Rous, Tim Stone and Steve and Jeanette Panayi.

The money raised will be put towards a number of different schemes including the initial set-up of the foundation, reinvested into further events and projects and also donations to the hospitals which cared for Steve during his treatment for Acute Myeloid Leukemia which he was diagnosed with a year-and-a-half ago.

Despite the best efforts of medical staff Steve died last November.

Steve's wife Susan said: "Steve was diagnosed with AML on August 12, 2016.

"He was a wonderful husband and a loving father and stepfather to Myles, Olivia and Elliot he never once faltered in his pure determination to conquer this cruel disease, and resume normal life again.

"Receiving treatment at the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital and a bone marrow transplant at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham, consultants and nursing staff alike soon began to recognise the unique bravery and relentless positivity Steve showed throughout his intense treatment. Even in his darkest of days.he would be on top of his game.

"However, Steve sadly passed away, aged 50 years.

"The Steve Newman Blue Sky Foundation represents optimism, positive attitude and hopefulness in one day finding a cure for leukaemia.

"Steve was a thoughtful and kind man with a sense of humour and a very forward thinking attitude to resolving any given situation. Through our fundraising we will honour his name by our continuous efforts to fulfil his legacy in finding a cure.“

To donate to the Steve Newman Blue Sky Foundation visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/olivia-goode