The big day is finally here - the London Marathon 2021.
After the popular race was transformed into a virtual event in 2020 owing to the coronavirus pandemic, this year's run has been pushed back from its usual April slot to the first Sunday in October in order to see thousands of runners take to the famous course.
Sunday, October 3 will see dozens of athletes set off from Blackheath followed by more than 40,000 fun-runners taking on the course for themselves and the benefit of charities across the world.
And once again, we have runners from our area ready to take on the 26.2-mile course with big ambitions of reaching the finish line on The Mall in good time.
From everyone at the Whitchurch Herald, we wish you all the very best.
Edward Timpson MP
Leading the way is Eddisbury MP Edward Timpson who will be joining a record 21 other Members of Parliament in running the London Marathon this weekend.
Mr Timpson, a London Marathon veteran, took part in the race locally last year because of the Covid-19 pandemic, choosing to walk more than 26 miles for charity on the Sandstone Trail of his Eddisbury constituency.
This year Mr Timpson will be running in support of a charity close to his heart as a former Children's Minister: Cheshire Young Carers.
The charity is based in Ellesmere Port, but works across the county to give a childhood to young people aged six to 25 with caring responsibilities.
Mr Timpson said: "It's 23 years since my first marathon, and in the past I have run with two of my brothers, my sister, father and wife!
"This time I'm running on my own, but can't wait to get on the start line and see if I can get close to my 1998 time of just under four hours.
"I'm still yet to run one in fancy dress - maybe next year!"
Anyone who would like to donate can sponsor Edward online at justgiving.com/fundraising/edward-timpson-marathon
John Haley
John Haley, 31, only began running a few years ago and has been steadily improving over the intervening years – and is now planning to tackle the country’s top race in the form of the London Marathon.
Mr Haley attempted to join the race last year, but was unsuccessful.
However, he was granted entry for this year’s event.
He says he will be running for Maudsley Charity, in memory of friends and family who have lost their lives to mental health.
“I'm wanting to raise more awareness for this charity that has dedicated years to improving services and care for those who suffer from mental health illness,” said Mr Haley.
“I’m running in memory of those who have battled and unfortunately lost.”
To donate to John’s fundraiser, visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/JohnHaley2
Mike and Matthew Arthan
Around rounding things off for the Herald are father and son team Mike and Matthew Arthan who will undertake the run to raise funds for the Lingen Davies Cancer fund.
It also marks a milestone for the duo, as it is 25 years since Mike undertook his first London Marathon.
Matthew said he was looking forward to raising money alongside his dad.
He said: "Having run 10ks for the last several years me and my dad Mike have decided to test ourselves and take on the challenge of a lifetime and run the London Marathon together.
"This will be the longest run of my life, but Mike first ran the London Marathon in 1995 and is raring to go again 25 years later.
"We are running for Lingen Davies Cancer Fund, an amazing charity who provide cancer support and treatment for the people of Shropshire and mid Wales."
To donate to the fundraiser, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/matthew-arthan
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