Go, Jonnie, Go

Meningitis Research Foundation (MRF) is thrilled that patron Jonnie Peacock will be appearing in this autumn’s series of Strictly Come Dancing on BBC1.

More used to sprinting rather than tripping the light fantastic, gold medallist at both the 2012 and 2016 Paralympics, 24 year old Jonnie is teamed up with professional partner, Oti Mabuse, against a range of celebrities from the worlds of showbiz, sports and politics.

Jonnie lost his lower left leg to meningitis at the age of five and has been a staunch supporter of MRF for many years, often teaming up with young MRF Ambassador Sofia Crockatt at the Great North Run to raise awareness of the disease.

Jonnie’s not the first MRF name to appear on Strictly. Two years ago MRF Ambassador Michael Pattie appeared on the first series of the People’s Strictly. Michael lost his son David to meningitis in 1999 aged just 13. Michael’s appearance on the show was in recognition of his tireless work in supporting MRF through his awareness raising and sponsored events.

We wait with bated breath to see how Jonnie gets on under the steely gaze of Strictly judge Craig Revel-Horwood. And the waiting is almost over as the series returns to BBC 1 this Saturday, 23 September, at 6.25pm.

Good luck, Jonnie!