Oxford runners raise £50K for charity after London Marathon

The team took on the 26.2-mile challenge through the streets of the capital on Sunday to raise funds for hospital services across Oxfordshire.

Their efforts will support cancer care, the Oxford Heart Centre, the Silver Star Maternity Fund, and Oxfordshire I.M.P.S.

Each runner had a personal reason for taking part in the event.

Nick Ellis said: “I found the run really tough, it was warm, and there were more up hills than I remember.

“The incredible crowd kept me going, though.

“I’m incredibly grateful to Oxford Hospitals Charity and I.M.P.S for giving me the opportunity to run and fundraise for such an amazing cause.”

Runner Ava McGinn said: “The atmosphere was something I’ll never quite be able to put into words.

“My knees definitely had other opinions by the end, but crossing that finish line knowing I’d done it for the Children’s Hospital made every step worth it.”

The team’s fastest finisher was Cris Ciotti, completing the marathon in three hours and 24 minutes.

Mark Swadling was the top fundraiser, having raised £10,700.

James Hannelly said: “I was running in memory of my sister Leann and to support the amazing work of the charity, and that made me dig deep and get the race done!”

Claire Hughes, events officer at Oxford Hospitals Charity, thanked all 14 runners for their dedication and support.