The day I met Prince Harry (From Warrington Guardian)

The day I met Prince Harry

9:30am Wednesday 26th September 2012 in News

AN Appleton man who has raised more than £16,000 through three years of marathon runs dressed as 13 foot charity mascot Nessa the Nurse has received a Royal thank you.

Rob Schooling met Prince Harry after winning the special recognition award at the 2012 WellChild awards.

Mr Schooling became involved with the charity after speaking to the events manager in 2007 when WellChild became the official charity of the London Marathon.

He went to a WellChild awards ceremony in 2009 and with four children of his own, aged between seven and 22, Mr Schooling said the aims of the group ‘really hit home: He said “I admired the charity’s efforts to help both sick children and their families. It really hit home”

“And it was a good experience to meet Prince Harry. He was in good spirits."

In 2009 he was asked by WellChild to run the marathon in the 13 foot mascot costume and then did it again in 2011 and in the race this year.

The mascot represents the team of nurses who are dedicated to helping children and young adults with complex care needs to get home from the hospital with the care and support they need.

Prince Harry is the charity’s patron and have an emotional speech at the award ceremony earlier this month in London.

He added: “I always come away from here feeling uplifted just from being with such great people. It is also a humbling experience. I feel in awe of individuals with such determination, resolve and strength.”