WELSH RAF Reservists running the Cardiff Half marathon this Sunday were inspired by the death of a Penarth members' husband to raise money to buy life-saving heart machines.

The team from Cardiff-based Number 614 (County of Glamorgan) Squadron will be raising funds for Welsh Hearts, the charity who provide defibrillators across the country and training in how to use them.

Their decision to choose Welsh Hearts as their charity for 2015 was inspired by squadron member Cathy Sharples, whose husband Mike died suddenly after having a heart attack while they were on holiday in Sardinia.

Cathy, who is from Penarth, says: “Losing my husband Mike was devastating. I believe the only thing that might have made a difference is if we'd had immediate access to a defibrillator. I'm supporting Welsh Hearts because I can see tangible results - defibrillators and CPR training which will save the lives of people in Mike's position.”

She added: “It's a real privilege to be running for the squadron at such a big race as the Cardiff Half. We hope by taking part in a high-profile event like this we can raise as much money as we can for Welsh Hearts and spread the word about their great work as well."

Sharon Owen of Welsh Hearts said she was thrilled that members of the squadron were running the half marathon for the charity.

“It’s great that 614 Squadron have chosen to run for us. Every £1,009 they raise will buy a defibrillator and CPR training in the community and that means we can save more lives in Wales. For £3,500 we could screen 120 people for heart problems in a day.”

Welsh Hearts aims to fund the widespread provision of life-saving defibrillators throughout Wales and to fund research into heart disease prevention.

Dinas Powys man and squadron member Martin Wade is also running in the team and said that they had been training hard to get ready for the race which they will run as a unit. “It will be great to run the race as a team in the squadron’s home city” he said.

The squadron is made up of part-time airmen and women who come from across South Wales and further afield. The people who join the unit are from a variety of backgrounds and choose to give their spare time to the Royal Auxiliary Air Force. The runners in the team alone include a physiotherapist, a photographer and a teacher.

To donate, go to www.justgiving.com/614cardiffhalf