Running for St Raphael's

In total, twelve people, including one from Nottingham and one from Canada are running to raise much-needed funds for the hospice during its 25th anniversary.

Mario Markovac, 45, a chauffeur from Carshalton is entering for the first time and said: "I’ve wanted to do it since I was a child. St Raphael’s Hospice looked after Anna Pearson, my neighbour before she passed away and when she died she didn’t want flowers, just donations to St Raphael’s."

Jamie Arnold, 34, from Wallington, Surrey, has worked for St Raphael’s Hospice for seven years as a healthcare assistant.

He said: "I see the work the Hospice does on a daily basis - it’s an incredible place. I see how the money we raise is invested in the Hospice. I was keen to get involved and raise money - especially as it’s the 25th anniversary year."

Byron Calmonson, 41, from Cheam, is also taking part; his son goes to St Cecilia’s School which supports the hospice with fundraising concerts and his wife’s nan, Lilian Coleman, passed away at the hospice two years ago.

He said: "We were impressed by the treatment which made an impossible situation bearable.

"They made us feel welcome and made her really comfortable. This place helped my family and I want to do something for them, a local charity."

Geoff Hill, community fundraiser, St Raphael’s Hospice, said: "Although registration has closed for this year if you have your own place in the London Marathon you can still join our team and run for St Raphael’s Hospice.

"After this year’s event, you can apply for next year’s London Marathon either through the organisers or St Raphael’s Hospice. We also have places available for this year for the BUPA 10,000 on Sunday 27 May, the British 10k on Sunday 15 July and the Run to the Beat half marathon on Sunday 21 October."

Please support them by donating money through the Give Your Quid appeal at justgiving.com/giveyourquidappeal or text STRH25 followed by £1, £2, £5 or £10 to 70070.