One of region's community heroes recognised by Drake Circus

Matthew Jeffery has been named Drake Circus’ Christmas Community Hero after going the extra mile last year to raise money for charity despite a diagnosis of thyroid cancer in July 2020.   

Nominated by his girlfriend Sabrina Turner, keen runner, Matthew refused to let the devastating news about his health keep him from his hobby. What’s more, he set out to raise as much money as possible for charity whilst doing it.

And his efforts have now seen him named Drake Circus Christmas Community Hero in recognition of his heroic achievements in 2022.  

The centre called for people across the region to nominate their friends, family, and neighbours who had gone above and beyond in 2022 to receive an extra gift to say thank you, and was inundated with wonderful entries, but one story in particular stood out.   

After running the London Landmark Half Marathon, Matthew set his sights higher, aiming to complete the Abbots World Marathon Majors, which comprises the six major marathons across the world: London, Berlin, Tokyo, Chicago, New York, and Boston.

Throughout this journey, Matthew has to date chalked off two marathons – Berlin and London – whilst raising money for charities such as the American Cancer Society, Cancer Research UK and Macmillan Cancer Support.

As a small way of saying thank you, Drake Circus has given Matthew £250 to spend at the centre in return for all of his efforts.    

Matthew said: “I am really grateful to have even been nominated for this competition, let alone to be the one selected to win it!   

“I’ve never shared my story or raised this money for myself, it’s always been to help other people and support charities doing crucial work.

“So, to win something for myself was really nice, as it’s been a heck of a lot of work. I look forward to using the voucher to buy all my new training kit for race days.”

Greg Lumley, centre director at Drake Circus, added: “Giving back is so important and, now more than ever, and at the end of 2022 we want to do our bit to recognise the people who are going above and beyond to help those most in need.  

“We were so inspired by Matthew’s story, hearing about everything he’s tackled and all he does to help and support our local community. A huge thank you to him, and all the other heroes, charities, and organisations that continue to work tirelessly to support our community.  

“We want to wish Matthew the very best of luck in his future running endeavors!”