A COUPLE are to put their best feet forward for charity dressed as Disney villain Cruella De Vil and a Dalmatian.
Faith Cobaine, 44, and Neil Gibbons, 49, are preparing for the world-renowned 13.1-mile Great North Run.
The Kendal couple will be raising money for South Lakeland Mind – a charity that supports people with mental health issues.
Faith said: “In this area a lot of people, especially young people, decide to take their own life. I would like somebody to be there for those who are suffering.
“If you’ve got a physical ailment you would get it treated but with a mental ailment family members and friends don’t often realise it, or don’t always know how to get the support or where to go.”
Last year the pair dressed as a wolf and Little Red Riding Hood. But this year Faith will be complementing Neil’s portrayal of the iconic villain with a Dalmatian outfit, complete with 101 toys to give out on the day.
“We want to make it fun and relaxed, even though it’s a serious matter,” said Faith. “We thought it would be funny to have Neil dressed as a woman. Last year we got a massive reaction from children and old people, as well as the press. We raised over £70 alongside the route on the day of the run.”
The outfits have involved a lot of preparation, with Faith buying the toys from eBay and trying to find a Dalmatian outfit in adult size, finally piecing it together with a separate tail and mask.
Faith said: “I will be wearing a rubber mask so it will be hot, but hopefully I’ll get a straw through it to drink water. I am hoping for a cool and clear day.”
This will be Faith’s 45th half-marathon and Neil’s 36th.
Faith said: “We used to do the Great North Run as serious runners. Now it’s not really about racing others, just completing it while raising money.”
Neil added: “I'm hoping to raise eyebrows as well as money. I don't feel embarrassed as it's not about me - it's about the spectators, the participants and of course the people who will benefit from the services of South Lakeland Mind. I'm looking forward to the spirit of the occasion and what is ultimately a 13.1 mile party. I just hope I don't get a ladder in my tights!”
The run is on September 11 in Newcastle.
The fundraising page can be found on
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