SPECSAVERS Guiseley lab manager, Richard Smith has been recognised by Age UK as the highest fundraiser of the Leeds Abbey Dash, receiving an award and a personal note from the charity.

Having set himself a target of £150, Richard exceeded this goal by 454%, totalling £682 to become the highest fundraising amount of the whole event.

Richard took up running during lockdown as a way to keep fit and quickly caught the running bug, prompting him to take on the 10k challenge as his first-ever charitable feat. Following his success, Richard has now signed up for the Sheffield half marathon in March to push himself further and raise more money for the cause.

On why he chose to raise money for Age UK, Richard says: “Having depended on those around me so much during the Covid lockdowns, I became really aware of those who don’t have friends or family close by to help them, especially the elderly. The fact is, we all get older and rely on that company and support more and more.”

He continues: “As part of my job at Specsavers, I help many elderly people, some of whom will leave the store to return to an empty house. If my fundraising provides comfort to someone who would otherwise be lonely and in need then it’s all been worth it. And I’d like to thank everyone who has contributed this worthwhile cause.”

To cater to elderly or less-mobile customers, Specsavers offers at-home appointments, available to book online or over the phone. At-home eye tests are very similar to the ones customers experience in-store, just with a few adjustments and specialist equipment to make them home-friendly. For more information visit specsavers.co.uk.