History will be made on Sunday 4 October as thousands of runners across the UK take part in the 40th anniversary London Marathon which is also its first virtual race due to Covid-19. They have 24 hours to run or walk the iconic 26.2 mile distance as a solo challenge, in memory of a loved one or on behalf of charity – the latter in particular need of help at this time.

Amongst those putting the final touches to their preparations are friends Lindsey Underhill and Sharon Sumner of RunTogether Baswich Run4Fun in Stafford. It will be mind over matter for this determined duo who were ready to run London Marathon on 26 April before it was postponed due to the coronavirus outbreak. 

Not to be beaten they have entered this virtual event and with the support of their running group, aim to complete the marathon over the full 24 hours on behalf of mental health charities YoungMinds and MIND. 

Their round the clock challenge begins at midnight with a neon 10K. Members of their running group will join them – socially distanced of course - at various stages of their runs. Any additional support or a few words of encouragement would be appreciated especially during the final few miles. 

Over in Shropshire, mother and sister June and Tina Fallon plan to walk 26.2 miles in tribute to their son, Craig Fallon, the British Judo World Champion and one of the leading lights in the sport. Tragically, Craig committed suicide in 2019. His family are walking on behalf of MIND and to raise awareness of mental health issues.   

Good luck to Lindsey, Sharon, June and Tina on Sunday. 

Find out what runners have planned for the Virtual London Marathon on the runABC North newsfeed.  

Image courtesy of Luigialberto Febbrile (Dreamstime.com)