Bristol lass takes up Veggie marathon challenge
BRISTOL nutritionist Amanda Woodvine is facing the challenge of a lifetime as she gears up to run the London Marathon. Amanda, 31, is rumoured to be wearing a lycra leotard and tutu when she runs 26.2 miles to raise money for Bristol-based health charity, the Vegetarian & Vegan Foundation (VVF). “I ran the Bristol Half Marathon in 2007 and had problems using the stairs for weeks afterwards!” says Amanda. “I found out about my charity place in the London Marathon almost two years ago. I felt like I had ages to get fit, but it’s crept up on me so quickly. I can’t believe I’ll be running the biggy in less than three months’ time. I must have covered more than 180 miles during training over these cold, dark winter months. The hard work will all be worthwhile for Amanda if she succeeds in raising £5,000 for the Vegetarian & Vegan Foundation. Amanda has worked as the VVF’s senior nutritionist for almost four years, so has seen first hand what a difference people’s donations make. “One of the projects which I’m involved with is the VVF’s work with stroke survivors and their carers, giving talks, cookery demonstrations and nutritional advice,” says Amanda. “Most patients would like more information on healthy eating than they receive, which is exactly why the VVF was set up. “Another important part of the VVF’s work is opening young people’s eyes to the health impact of eating animal products and to the cruelty of livestock production. Our 120 trained speakers are taking the veggie message and cookery demos into schools throughout the UK, with positive and dramatic effects.” Amanda has also been involved in organising free, fun Tuesday night events at the Better Food Company on Sevier Street as part of the Bristol Freeconomy, and is vice president of her local women’s group in Greenbank, Easton. She is hoping the local community will support her in her marathon challenge. “VVF supporters have been very generous and I hope other people in Bristol will sponsor me if they can,” said Amanda. “Even a few pounds will make a huge difference and mean the Vegetarian & Vegan Foundation can continue their invaluable work providing patients with much needed nutritional advice.” You can sponsor Amanda by visiting her online fundraising page on www.justgiving.com/amandawoodvine or by calling the VVF on 0117 970 5190 (Mon-Fri, 9-6). Notes to Editors For further information or to arrange a photo call please contact Amanda Woodvine on 07599 022259 A picture of Amanda is available upon request. For further information and photos on the Vegetarian & Vegan Foundation please contact Helen Rossiter on 0117 944 1000 or email press@vegetarian.org.uk For further information on Justgiving.com, please contact Mike Wells on 0845 021 2110.
About the author
Dr. Justine Butler
Justine joined Viva! in 2005 after graduating from Bristol University with a PhD in molecular biology. After working as a campaigner, then researcher and writer, she is now Viva!’s head of research and her work focuses on animals, the environment and health. Justine’s scientific training helps her research and write both in-depth scientific reports, such as White Lies and the Meat Report, as well as easy-to-read factsheets and myth-busting articles for consumer magazines and updates on the latest research. Justine also recently wrote the Vegan for the Planet guide for Viva!’s Vegan Now campaign.
View author page | View staff profile
