Team EACH runners are getting ready for the London Marathon

Team EACH runners are getting ready for the London Marathon

Hardy runners are making last-minute preparations ahead of next weekend’s Virgin Money London Marathon.

The iconic event is set to be the biggest marathon ever staged anywhere in the world, with an astonishing 100,000 runners scheduled to take part on Sunday, 3rd October.

An incredible 50,000 are due to pound the streets of the capital with the same number in the accompanying virtual event – and many of them will be flying the flag for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).

Team EACH will be represented by 29 runners, all tackling the gruelling 26.2 miles to raise vital funds for the charity, which cares for children and young people with life-threatening conditions across Cambridgeshire, Essex, Norfolk and Suffolk.

EACH Events Fundraiser Emma Cook said: “We’re thrilled to have these wonderful people running as part of our team on Sunday.

“Some will be there in the capital and others taking part in the virtual event. Wherever they complete their marathon, we hope they have the very best experience possible and enjoy being part of the world’s biggest and most iconic race. And whenever the going gets tough, we hope they remember what an incredible difference they’re making for children, young people and families across East Anglia. Good luck to them all and thank you so much for your support.”

Members of the charity’s fundraising team will be on hand to give runners a shout and a wave, as well as handing out water and snacks.

They will be at their ‘cheer point’ at Canada Water, just before mile nine, from 10am.

The EACH team plan to be located on the left-hand side of the road, in front of Surrey Quays shopping centre on Redriff Road, near the Tesco Extra.

They also hope to dash to mile 24, although this cannot be guaranteed due to potential crowds on the day.

The virtual event can be run on a course or route of the runner’s choice and they have 24 hours to complete the 26.2 miles.

Runners keen to support EACH at next year’s London Marathon can apply for a ballot place for the 2022 event. They need to be quick though as the ballot opens on 3rd October and closes on the 8th.

Visit the EACH website to find out how to donate, volunteer, or find out what else does to support children and families across East Anglia

All articles on this news site are submitted by registered contributors of EssexWire. Find out how to subscribe and submit your stories here »