Pow! Superman brings strength and hope to Sandy during lockdown

Will Bailey, 36, can be seen donning colourful comic book costumes as he runs around the town, to the delight of adults and children alike.

Determined Will first had the idea during the spring lockdown, and now England has to stay at home again, each weekend he’ll be putting his outfits back on for ‘Superhero Saturdays’.

He is hoping that in exchange for the smiles he generates, residents will be able to donate money to help refurbish Laburnham Primary’s outdoor climbing frames.

Will said: “I started off back in April, when I thought, ‘What can I do to keep people amused?’

“The community have really loved it.

“I’ve had cars honking at me, flashing car lights - and some very strange looks.

“Initially, I was running along the main high street down to Tesco, but as my fitness increased, so did my distances, and I added on this cul-de-sac, and that cul-de-sac. I’ve been everywhere!”

Back in February, Will had challenged himself to run every day, so when he was put on furlough during lockdown, it seemed like the perfect way to keep motivated and positive.

He has since got a new job, and not only is his career going from strength to strength, his outfits are, too.

Will said: “For Halloween I created the Creepy Captain.

“I prepared my treasure chest of sweets three weeks before and then on Halloween night I walked around town as the Creepy Captain with some creepy music, giving my treasure chest of sweets to the little ones who were out trick or treating with their parents.”

Will’s costumes have included Superman, Spiderman, The Flash and Wolverine, while he also has dedicated fancy dress assistants you may have seen around, too. Will has been recording superhero birthday messages for children during lockdown and he is also offering FaceTimes.

As for Christmas, watch this space, because he’s got something up his sleeve!

Will added: “A couple of weeks into my Superhero challenge I created a private Facebook group called Joggers And Runners of Sandy. It is a place where our local runners and joggers can mix and post their routes and achievements. You can also get ideas on new routes to try out. All levels are welcome and we do our best to support and motivate each other.”

Will lives with his wife Maria, 37, and children Alexander, eight, Arabella, four, and Toby, two.

He has so far raised £258 for his son’s primary school and hopes he can reach his target of £500.

To donate: www.gofundme.com/f/super-hero-saturdays