Peter Wood

Peter`s many friends would love to see him carry the Olympic Torch. A sprightly 82, he has made a long and varied contribution to local life and shows no sign of easing up. Peter joined the running boom in the 1970s to improve his fitness but soon recognised the opportunity to raise money for charity. In 1977 he founded the annual Glossop Jog. So far it has raised £180,000 for various charities. Peter`s wiry frame is still amongst 500 or so runners. Peter`s mother and sister both died of cancer. In 1992, thinking of the care they received, he joined the steering group for Willow Wood Hospice. As a chartered accountant, he became Company Seetary and Volunteer Director of the project. The hospice opened in 1999 after £2m was raised. Almost as much is still needed each year for running costs. To date the highly regarded facility has provided palliative care for over 2,000 people, mostly cancer sufferers. Peter continues working at the hospice 5 days a week. Responsible for its £2m budget, he`s also taken the lead in fund-raising activities, including 4 marathons, 7 half-marathons, a parachute jump and walk on red-hot coals. Newcomers to the north from Essex 37 years ago, Peter and wife, Mavis, have 3 daughters and 8 grandchildren. He`s also served as a local councillor and on employment tribunals. He enjoys telling a good story when he relaxes. Peter was awarded the MBE in 2007 for service to the local community and carried the relay baton before the 2002 Commonwealth Games.