John Ralton, who sadly died earlier this year of Motor Neurone Disease, worked for South Ayrshire Council, his colleagues wanted to remember him in a special way, so they have raised £3,301 for the Scottish motor Neurone Disease Association.

A group of 24 staff from South Ayrshire Council’s Planning Department, Local Plans and Environment and Conservation sections decided to form a running team called ‘Raltons Runners and enter the Great Scottish Run.

‘Ralton’s Runners’, most of whom were not runners, devised their own training programme and then took part in the Great Scottish Run in Glasgow in memory of their colleague.  Each team member ran in either the half marathon or the 10k race.  The team raised money by asking staff within the Council to sponsor them.

Councillor Gibson T. Macdonald, the Leader of South Ayrshire Council said:  “I am very proud of what the staff have done, it was a wonderful way to remember their colleague while doing something constructive for the Scottish Motor Neurone Association.”

John’s wife, daughter Leah and grandson Jae were all at the cheque presentation ceremony.  Leah Ralton and her son Jae, aged 4, presented a cheque for £3,301 to Jean Bissett from the Scottish Motor Neurone Disease Association, in memory of John Ralton.

‘Raltons Runners’ have raised £3,301 and this total is expected to rise even further as more donations are received.

Leah and Jae presented a cheque for £3,301 to Jean Bissett from the Scottish Motor Neurone Disease Association pictured with them at the presentation are by Graham Peterkin, Depute Chief Executive and Director of Development, Safety and Regulation and some of the ‘Raltons Runners’.

November 2006