Runner takes on 13 miles in dad’s honour

A MAN has completed the Great North Run in honour of his dad after he died from ­meningitis.

Jeff Skinner, 55, lost his father, George, when he was struck down with the condition in September last year.

George, from Edinburgh, was rushed to hospital after falling ill, but couldn’t be saved.

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His son, who lives in Exeter, Devon, ran the 13.1-mile distance on September 16 in just under two hours, raising £800 for Meningitis UK.

Jeff was further inspired after a colleague’s two-week-old son survived meningitis.

He said: “It was so devastating to see my dad die from the awful disease. I will always remember him. Now I will do my best to spread awareness of meningitis and how quickly it can take hold.”

Meningitis UK founder Steve Dayman said: “What happened to George is extremely tragic and shows how meningitis can strike anyone at any time.”

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