“One of my bucket list of things to do over the years was to run the iconic London Marathon and this year when I was offered a place to run for Leonard Cheshire Disability, of course I jumped at the chance to raise funds for this great cause, which helps support everyone to live, learn and work independently as they choose whatever their ability.
So the training started along with my daughter Stephanie who also had a place for Age UK , we were out there clocking up the miles come rain or shine from early morning and through dark nights.
Race day came and we stood on the start line feeling ready, nervous and super excited all at the same time being told how incredible running the London Marathon would be and it didn’t disappoint from the start, crowds shouting your names with words of engorgement choirs and with live music ringing in our ears we plodded our way around the route, passing landmarks like Cutty Sark, Canary Wharf, Victoria Embankment to name a few. One of the highlights was Tower Bridge with Its blue and gold architecture is truly stunning. This area is a real hotspot for spectators which line both sides of the bridge. The atmosphere was incredible and very loud which gave us a sense of buzz and really helped with motivation to us keep going.
Everyone was so supportive from the crowds, fellow runners and the many volunteers who worked tirelessly to look after each and every one of us to make sure we all had a great day.
Stephanie and I trained together, ran together and finished together. Despite not hitting our target time we crossed the finish line to collect our medal feeling very emotional and immensely proud of our achievement with a time of 6 hours 55 minutes 15 seconds, more importantly raised much needed funds for our charities £1,130 Leonard Cheshire Disability and £1,940 for Age UK.
It was truly an amazing day an experience that only now is really sinking in that Stephanie and I are one of the London Marathon 2024 Finishers and a bucket list ticked off.”
We are immensely proud of Kay and her efforts to raise money for her charities of choice and not to mention completing the London Marathon.
Harry Huddart has joined our Ecology team as a Senior Ecologist!
We reflect on our 2024 ecology season and celebrate our seasonal staff and their exceptional work.