London Marathon 2026: Oxfordshire-based runners taking part

The 46th TCS London Marathon is in full swing after tens of thousands of runners set off on the 26.2-mile course around the capital.

Supporters have lined the route to cheer on the record-breaking 59,000 people taking part in this year’s race.

Among the famous faces, including Wicked star Cynthia Erivo, former England manager Tony Adams and former cricketer Sir Alastair Cook, are seven local faces.

In memory of firefighters Jennie Logan and Martyn Sadler, and civilian David Chester, who sadly lost their lives at the Bicester Motion fire in May 2025, three will run for the Fire Fighters Charity.

Chris Brummell and Martyn Sadler (Image: Chris Brummell)

Chris Brummell, Martyn’s brother-in-law, said: “Martyn was a firefighter – a role that defined his life through his dedication, courage, and selflessness.

“He was someone who always put others first, both in his work and his personal life, and his loss left a space in our family that can never be filled.”

Jamie Gough is based at Bicester Fire Station (Image: Supplied)

Jamie Gough, based at Bicester Fire Station, described Ms Logan as ‘fearless’ and ‘fiercely compassionate,’ while he remembered Mr Sadler as ‘calm, steady and the kind of person you’d hope to have by your side on the toughest day’.

Chris Dabell running a half-marathon in full firefighter kit as part of his training for London Marathon (Image: Chris Dabell)

Chris Dabell will run in full firefighter kit, including boots, breathing apparatus and a helmet. This will add approximately 20kg worth of weight.

The former chairman of Bicester Rugby Football Union Club knew both Mr Sadler and Ms Logan through the sport.

Through various fundraising events, the club raised more than £57,000 for the charity.

Between them, they have raised more than £30,000 for the charity through fundraising pages and community events.

Two runners from Oxford are taking part in the race in support of Helen & Douglas house.

They are part of the 30 runners supporting the Oxford-based charity, which aims to raise £100,000 from the event.

Chris Russell from Oxford will be running the marathon on April 26 (Image: Supplied)

Chris Russell, from Oxford, is taking part on his 40th birthday in support of the charity that has cared for his daughter Ella for the past two years.

Alexander Betts is attempting to break the world record of three hours 31 minuets by running in academic clothing (Image: Alexander Betts)

Alexander Betts, a University of Oxford professor, is attempting to break the world record for the fastest marathon dressed as an academic.

The current record stands at three hours and 31 minutes, which was set last year. So far, he has raised more than £2,000.

Chinor-based Mark is running for My Cancer My Choices in honour of his sister, Laura (Image: Chinor-based Mark)

Chinor-based Mark will run in support of My Cancer My Choices in honour of his sister, Laura, who is currently living wit stage 4 breast cancer.

He is one of five runners taking part in the marathon for the Berkshire-based charity.