Financial advisor takes on life-changing challenge

A north east independent financial advisor is carrying out a series of sporting challenges to raise vital funds for a leading diabetes charity.

Phil Anderson, managing director of Phil Anderson Financial Services, which was established in 2011, has pledged his support to Diabetes UK after raising over £1,100 for the charity, with more funds still to be raised.

Mr Anderson, recently participated in the Swim 22, national swimming challenge for Diabetes UK, swimming 22 miles (the equivalent of The English Channel) in three months. He is now challenging himself further to run ten 10K’s and a half marathon by the end of the year.

As a result of his efforts the independent financial advisor has had to re-evaluate his own life insurance through his company, Phil Anderson Financial Services, which specialises in mortgages, insurance, investments and pensions, as a result of losing over four-stone in weight due to his fundraising efforts.

Mr Anderson, who has over 15 years experience in the financial industry, is now preparing for his next challenge in August when he will face a 10K and his biggest challenge to date, the Fraserburgh half marathon in November.

He said: “I am delighted with the progress I have made so far and I can’t believe how much money I have raised, never mind how much weight I have lost in the past few months.

“The Swim 22 challenge was fantastic and I have decided to challenge myself to complete ten 10K’s this year, as well as a half Marathon in November. I’ve raised over £1,000 already and really want to encourage anyone who can, to dig deep for the charity.

“This experience has been personally life-changing. I’ve had to buy a new wardrobe twice already and I now feel the healthiest I have in a long time. It’s a great feeling knowing that I’ve raised money for a good cause but have also managed to make lifestyle changes along the way, which in the long run, will benefit my health dramatically.”

Karen Moore, regional fundraiser of Diabetes UK, added: “Phil has been a huge inspiration for the charity and his sponsorship will be extremely beneficial in helping us provide information, help and support people to with diabetes so they can manage their condition effectively.

“We are thrilled that Phil has chosen to raise funds for Diabetes UK and wish him the best of luck for his future races in the coming months.”

To make a donation to Phil’s fundraising initiative visit www.justgiving.com/Phil-Anderson3.