This year, the London Marathon’s chosen charity was Pancreatic Cancer UK, with the money raised used to promote awareness and funding for research.

Leo Moore, Head of Religious Education at Co-op Academy Stoke-on-Trent, ran on behalf of his sister Hannah, who had to pull out due to an injury. Hannah’s husband Tal passed away from Pancreatic cancer in December 2023 while Hannah was pregnant with their son. Tragically, Tal passed away before being able to meet his son. They had been married for less than three months and Tal died a month after his diagnosis. 

The survival rates for pancreatic cancer are unfortunately very low and by the time that it is diagnosed it is often tragically too late. Leo also lost his best friend Adam to pancreatic cancer.

Reflecting on his experience, Leo said: “It was tough going in the heat but the crowds were amazing and it was a truly humbling and moving experience to be able to remember both Tal and Adam. 

“I am especially grateful to my friends, family and Co-op colleagues for their generosity and support in helping to raise over £5,000 for Pancreatic Cancer UK.”

Read more about Leo’s journey and donate here.
 

Maths teacher at Co-op Academy Bebington, Roy Caine, ran the marathon in memory of his friend Alan who passed away in 2023. 

Fundraising for British Liver Trust, the support of the crowd and the memory of his late friend kept him going throughout the gruelling course.

He said: "It was probably the hardest thing I've ever physically done because of just how hot it got, and I'm really grateful to all the supporters and volunteers who kept everyone going.

“It got really tough, especially after about 30km, but knowing I had the support of my friends and family and knowing that my friend Alan was on my shoulder got me through.

“I'm delighted to have raised money for the British Liver Trust in his name, and I must just take a moment to note just how generous so many of my colleagues have been at Bebington. I did say I wouldn't do it again, but I did also sign up for the ballot for next year, so who knows!"

You can donate to Roy’s Just Giving page here.

 

Helen Richardson, TA and Pastoral Leader for Year 9 at Co-op Academy Bebington was running the London Marathon in support of Asthma + Lung UK in memory of her late father.

Unfortunately, Helen suffered an ACL injury early on in her run and was recovered by medics on the course.

“I trained hard for 16 weeks and it took over my life - mentally and physically - so I am absolutely heartbroken to be honest and very frustrated,” said Helen.

“I crossed the start line on marathon day and my knee literally went as I crossed it, the pain was excruciating and I couldn’t even walk on it or put any weight on it. 

“The medics removed me and I was given treatment and I'm now recovering on crutches! On a positive note I have hit my target and raised £2010 for an amazing charity and I've applied to run again next year.”

Support Helen’s fundraising here.

 

PE teacher at Co-op Academy Walkden, Andy Tobutt was also running and fundraising for a charity close to his family.

After completing the Manchester 10k, Andy set himself a new target for 2025 and decided to tackle the London Marathon, running on behalf of Milly’s Smiles.

This charity was chosen by pupils at Walkden as their school charity for 2024/25 for the incredible work and support they offer families whose lives have been affected by cancer.

“This is a cause so close to our hearts following our spells in hospital with my daughter Darcie over the past two years,” said Andy.

“We know only too well the importance of a Milly Bag for families when first admitted to hospital so all monies raised this year will go towards providing a Milly Bag to every family admitted to hospital in Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, Newcastle and London.

“During the marathon I experienced heat exhaustion at mile 21, so had to receive treatment from the medics on course. My condition improved and I was allowed to continue - walking the remaining 5 miles to the finish line.

“It meant such a lot to me to be able to complete the marathon and to fundraise for such an amazing charity. Thank you to everyone who has donated so far.”

Donate to Andy’s Just Giving page for Milly’s Smiles here.