Seven supporters of a Sutton charity have helped fundraise more than £18,000 after running in the hottest London Marathon on record.

The runners ran the 26-mile route for St Raphael’s Hospice, based in London Road, at what was also the largest after more than 40,000 people participating.

It follows after a group of 18 volunteers completed a ‘punishing’ trek of Peru which helped raise more than £50,000.

Michelle Baldwin, who ran her second marathon for the charity, said: “The London Marathon was really tough this year with the heat and the water shortage, but every time I felt like quitting I thought of my dad and St Raphael’s.

“The importance of this got to me in the end. I met up with Peppa Pig at mile 25 and we finished together.

“It didn’t feel impossible I would finish, let alone with a legend like Peppa!

“It was a great day.”

St Raphael’s Hospice, which needs £5.8 million a year to run, serves residents in both Sutton and Merton with palliative care.

The charity has been offering support to people in both boroughs since April 1987.

Lucia Heard, community events and fundraiser for St Raphael’s Hospice, said: “It was a fantastic day and I am so proud of all our incredible runners, especially for running in the heat.

“I am sure it will be a day that none of them will ever forget.”