A celebrity from Andover is celebrating after raising money for charity by putting on her running shoes once again.
Katie Piper, a writer, activist, television presenter and model who was born in Andover, braved the wind, rain and unseasonally bad weather to take part in the Andover 10k race on Saturday, August 5.
Katie and her husband Richard Sutton completed the run, which took place at Crawlboys Farm in Ludgershall, to raise money for the Katie Piper Foundation, a charity sert up in her name that helps survivors of burns.
In March 2008, Katie was attacked with acid by her ex-boyfriend and an accomplice, causing major damage to her face and blindness in one eye. She underwent pioneering surgery to restore her face and vision.
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The Katie Piper Foundation focuses on creating a specialist rehabilitation experience in a space where adult survivors of burns can come and live for as much as a month in one go, to focus wholly on their recovery.
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Katie, who grew up in Andover and went to Basingstoke College of Technology, said: "We loved coming back to Andover to take part in the 10k race. The rain and wind didn’t hold us back from giving it our all and braving the elements.
"This run was really important training for my half-marathon in October - raising needed funds for The Katie Piper Foundation. It would be so brilliant to see more supporters and fundraisers for my charity as we survive solely on public and private donations.
"There are still charity-run places for the half-marathon so get in touch with my charity via the website if you’d like a place. Andover residents have always supported my journey and charity so I always appreciate this unwavering home-town support!"
Katie's charity supports many races and running events as she found that running helped her mental health after the horrific attack.
She took up running more than 12 years ago while living in London and says it helped her overcome loneliness.
She has completed many other races, including the Asics London 10k, often pictured smiling as she finishes.
Go to runforcharity.com/charity/the-katie-piper-foundation for more.
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