Hastings ex-soldier's charity run in memory of Reg

Richard Vilder is running the Paras 10 for Cancer Research UK as he has lost a few members of his family to cancer.

But the 31-year-old builder wanted to do it in memory of Reg who was his running coach from a young age and he also gave Richard his first job.

“He was an inspirational person, he did a lot for a lot of people especially young kids for running and giving them work as well,” Richard said.

“You meet people like Reg once in your life.

“I’ve never heard anyone say a bad thing about Reg which says a lot, he was a very nice man.”

Richard does not have any targets for the race nor how much he raises: just to finish and make as much as possible.

The former serviceman spent four years in the army including two tours of Iraq, but has not ran competitively for a few years after reaching some decent times.

He said eight weeks of ‘hard’ training will get him into shape for the gruelling obstacle course in Colchester on May 15.

Reg’s widow Jean Wild was delighted to hear of Richard’s run and said her husband will not be forgotten with tributes like this.

“I was over the moon as we’re not letting Reg’s memory die,” she said.

“Every year somebody runs or does something for him.

“It’s lovely because he won’t be forgotten.”

To donate to Richard’s cause, visit: www.justgiving.com/Richard-Vidler.

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