Local heroes go the distance at the London Marathon, raising over £36,000 for hospital charity

Our team of dedicated runners have successfully completed the London Marathon, raising over £36,000 so far for Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity. 

Taking on the iconic 26.2-mile challenge on Sunday alongside tens of thousands of runners, each participant had their own deeply personal reason for stepping up to the start line, from honouring loved ones and supporting family members, to giving back to the NHS teams who cared for them when it mattered most. 

Months of training, determination and resilience all led to an emotional and inspiring race day, with every runner crossing the finish line carrying a story close to their heart. 

Among them was Ben Page [pictured above right], general manager for the Emergency Department at Colchester Hospital, who took on the marathon to support the teams he works alongside every day. Balancing training with a demanding role, Ben’s efforts reflect the dedication seen across NHS staff. 

The team also included runners inspired by personal experiences of cancer, bereavement and the care received within local hospitals, turning their challenges into something positive by raising funds to support future patients and families. 

Laura Sanders [Pictured right] said: "All the doctors, nurses and technicians have supported my Grandad over the years, first through his prostate cancer and now heart problems. Their continued work is truly so appreciated for my Grandad as he is not only a pillar of my family but community as well!"

Funds raised will help Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity continue to provide support beyond NHS funding, enhancing patient care, improving environments and supporting staff wellbeing across local hospitals. 

Sandra Gosney, community fundraising manager at Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity, said: “We are incredibly proud of every single one of our runners. Taking on the London Marathon is no small feat, and to do it for such personal and meaningful reasons makes it even more special. The amount raised so far is fantastic and will make a real difference to patients, families and staff across our hospitals.” 

We would also like to thank everyone who donated, supported and cheered the team on, helping make this achievement possible. 

With donations still coming in, there is still time to support the runners and help them go even further. 

Sponsor Ben Page Sponsor George Foster Sponsor George Chilvers Sponsor Mike Green Sponsor Sam Knibbs Sponsor Freddie Robinson and Team Jude Sponsor Louise Sanders

Applications are now open for our Charity TCS London Marathon 2027 places

Let us know why you want to run for Colchester & Ipswich Hospital Charity. Applications close Sunday 28 June 2026. 

Apply for a Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity place