Andrew Baker, managing director of Zest, ran his 15th charity marathon in Valencia, clocking a time of 3.08.33.

The Valencia marathon was Andrew’s latest fund-raising initiative in support of Zest’s 2024 chosen charity, North East Wales Mind. Andrew Baker is fundraising for North East Wales Mind.  

The event was also special because it supported the aftermath of the region’s severe flooding in November, which made headlines around the world.  As Andrew explained, “The severe weather catastrophe had put the whole event in doubt, but after prioritising support for the affected communities, the organisers delivered a powerful message: “There is no greater finish line than being together. VALENCIA RUNS 4 VALENCIA”, providing a much-needed morale boost and fundraiser for the victims of the disaster.”

Andrew continued, “I had planned to participate in a European marathon this autumn, and Valencia stood out as the perfect choice. Classified as a World Athletics Platinum Event, it’s known for its flat, fast course with excellent  potential for personal bests. I also logged more than 550 miles in training including participation in the Warrington 10k and the Tatton Park Half Marathon.”

Andrew completed his first marathon in 2012 and committed to running as potential fundraiser for Zest’s chosen charities as a result.  Over the last 14 years, Zest employees have raised over £150,000 for a variety of charities alongside colleagues in the P&A Group.  These include Dementia UK, British Heart Foundation, Macmillan Cancer Support, Hope House, and Tŷ Gobaith Children’s Hospices, Cancer Research UK, Action for Children, Alzheimer’s Society, Alder Hey Children’s Hospital and Meningitis Now.

Commenting on this enthusiasm for the sport, Andrew said, “Taking up running is tough at first, but once you push through the initial challenges, the benefits are truly life changing.  It’s more than just exercise—it’s a gift to yourself - as well as supporting others and allowing us to raise awareness of mental health issues.”

North East Wales Mind helps people in Flintshire and Wrexham recover from mental health problems and stay emotionally healthy. In addition to telephone counselling and emotional support, the charity offers a range of online services and activities. Their phone lines are open 10am til 4pm each weekday.

Zest was established in 2005 to bring high quality, sustainable timber garden products to garden centres, online retailers, builders’ merchants, and major purchasing groups across the UK. 

For further information about Zest’s timber Outdoor Entertaining range, GYO, decorative and furniture products, visit www.zestoutdoorliving.co.uk.