HALESOWEN MP James Morris joined his Parliamentary colleagues including former health secretary Matt Hancock for a fun run to celebrate the NHS.

James joined MPs from across the House of Commons for a 4k run in St James's Park in central London on the 75th anniversary of the NHS last Wednesday (July 5).

James said: “The NHS is a much-loved institution and as it marks its 75th year, it is a great opportunity to pay tribute to all the doctors, nurses, specialists and everyone else who makes up the NHS workforce and pay great tribute to them for the work they do to save lives and make us healthier.

“Running is a great hobby of mine, not only keeping me fit but helping my mental health too, so it was great to join colleagues and do something we all enjoy, to celebrate a service we all love.

"Whilst there may be political differences over issues like funding or the structures of the NHS, most of us across the political spectrum are committed to the principles of a universal health system free at the point of use.”

Arranged in collaboration between the NHS75 team, Parkrun UK and the All Party Parliamentary Group for Parkrun, James ran alongside Matt Hancock, Government Chief Whip Simon Hart and several of his West Midlands colleagues, including Stuart Anderson, Eddie Hughes and Valerie Vaz.

Universal free healthcare was launched across the country on 5th July 1948.

James is no stranger to running in the capital, having completed the London Marathon in 2018 and 2019 and taking part in several half marathons and 10k races.