The Royal Marsden has launched a new fundraising challenge which asks supporters to run 26.2 miles in 26 days during September.

The 'Marsden Marathon' aims to help keep supporters fit whilst helping the cancer charity recover from the pandemic.

Around 400 supporters of The Royal Marsden were due to raise over £700,000 by taking part in events this year including, The Royal Parks Half Marathon, the Virgin Money London Marathon and the Great North Run.

While some events will take place next spring instead, the charity is expecting income to be negatively impacted.

Deborah James, author, broadcaster and Royal Marsden patient, says: “Running is my release, and about the only time my mind actually feels clear.

"I’m going to do the challenge for all the friends that I’ve lost along the way, for The Royal Marsden who keep me going and for myself, because running makes me feel alive.

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"I have really rubbish days when I don’t want to do anything, so if I can run a couple of kilometres when I have stage four cancer then anyone can do it!

"I was planning to run the London Marathon and am still hoping to do so, but this will keep me going in the meantime.”

Supporters can sign up online where they’ll receive their own web page which is linked to Strava so they can keep track of their miles, raise funds and unlock virtual badges.

Participants will receive a Royal Marsden Cancer Charity running buff when they have raised £50 and a medal for those who raise £200.

Funds raised from the Marsden Marathon will ensure that The Royal Marsden can continue to improve the lives of people affected by cancer.

For more information visit at, https://www.royalmarsden.org/marsden-marathon