One of the biggest marathons in the world returns to our capital this month.

The London Marathon is back on Sunday, April 21, with thousands taking part and running for their chosen charities. 

Learn about some of the inspirational people from the Maldon area who are taking part.

Samuel Peters, Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation

Maldon

Samuel Peters

"A close friend of ours daughter was diagnosed with a very rare form of lung cancer at the age of seven. I am running the London Marathon to raise awareness and as much money as I can to support these families through such a hard time! 

"This will be the first marathon I have ever run so I'm very much looking forward to it, I've got two young children and my partner Jess owns the Willow and Fox shop in Maldon High Street."

You can donate to Samuel's cause here

Kate Grindley, British Heart Foundation

Burnham-on-Crouch

"I am running in memory of my dad who passed away in May 2020 after suffering a cardiac arrest. I am trying to reach my total of £2500 so would appreciate the support. 

I have been running since 2017 but lost the love following my dad's passing. I want to raise awareness of the signs / symptoms of heart problems and encourage people to take CPR courses."

You can donate to Kate's cause here.

Shireen Lappage, Farleigh Hospice

Maldon

Shireen Lappage

"I feel very lucky to be part of the Farleigh Marathon team, having run for them before in 2022, and love the idea that I'm supporting a well known local charity, who rely on people like me and you, to keep up their wonderful services.

"I have had close friends who have received fantastic care and support from Farleigh Hospice, and it's nice to be able to give a little something back.

"I have lived in Maldon for 15 years now and work in a well known men's shop in the High Street.

"Running doesn't come easy to me but I've been helped along nicely by the local running group, Maldon Soul Runners."

Donate to Shireen's cause here.

Tess Wisbey, Parkinsons UK

Heybridge

"I'm running for Parkinsons UK. I have a neurological movement disorder myself and it has such a profound impact on my life, in the way that it is changing what I can do and how I feel about myself, that people experiencing these changes need support.

"I have loved running for such a long time that although my body is not so willing I have to keep trying."

Tess recently featured on Maldon Nub News, due to her recent 24-hour running challenge.

Donate to Tess's cause here.

Paul Osborne, Henshaws

Maldon

Paul Osborne

"I live in Maldon and have been running the streets over the last five months training for Sundays Marathon. 

"I've been trying for years to get into the ballot and was very lucky to be offered a position for a charity that the company I work for supports. 

"Henshaws are a Manchester based charity who support all ages living with sight loss and a range of other disabilities to help change their lives for the better."

Donate to Paul's cause here.

Clare Moyce

Maldon

"Hello, I'm Clare, a 39year old single mum. I've lived in Maldon pretty much all my life.

"I live with my daughter, Ariel who is nine. She is a great motivator when it comes to me running and has come on runs with me on her bike to keep me going. Along with some of my awesome running friends in this journey.

"I ran London marathon virtually in 2021 after doing couch to five kilometres in lockdown and finding a love for running and I got into the ballot this year to run it for real. I'm super excited about it. 

"I am fundraising for two charities: Mind Mental Health and St Joseph's Catholic Primary. Both are very close to my heart.

"Any donations are very welcome and greatly appreciated."

You can donate to Claire's Marathon with Mind here, and St Joseph's Catholic Primary here.

From Maldon Nub News, good luck to everyone racing on Sunday!