Here you can read more about our incredible London Marathon 2025 runners and support them...
Get to know our 2025 runners - click the (+) signs below
Amy Lawrence
Head of Marketing at Novuna Vehicle Solutions
What do you do in your day job? I look after our marketing strategy, PR, events, lead generation channels, and external communications. I’m also responsible for the UX/UI of our digital journeys, so I know the importance of connecting with people—and that’s exactly what I’m hoping to do through this marathon journey.
Why have you decided to take part in the marathon? Running has always been a passion of mine, and after completing a couple of half marathons, I felt it was time to take on a bigger challenge. The London Marathon has been a bucket-list dream for years, and combining this personal goal with the chance to raise awareness and funds for Ben makes it all the more meaningful.
What made you decide to support Ben? Ben provides an invaluable lifeline to our community and I’ve seen that first hand with my colleagues who have personally benefited from Ben's support. I wanted to not only raise funds for Ben but also raise awareness across my company and my network as I think it’s such a vital and important charity, especially as they truly understand the challenges our peers may face.
How has training been? I’m an early morning runner, and while the dark, cold mornings have been tough, I’ve loved catching sunrises and pushing myself further than ever before. I recently managed a 30k run, and while it felt like a huge milestone, I know the real challenge lies ahead. A mix of podcasts, scenic countryside, and a few PT sessions have kept me motivated—and I’m learning to dodge the occasional overly enthusiastic dog!
What are you looking forward to? I’m both nervous and excited about the big day. The thought of crossing the finish line, surrounded by an electric atmosphere, and knowing I’ve made a difference feels incredibly rewarding.
How are donations going? We had a great fundraising event at both our office sites across Novuna last Autumn. I was really pleased to tell people about my fundraising but also about what Ben offers and how they can help colleagues. This raised a good amount but I’m now working on some more events and a feature in our company-wide newsletter which I’m hoping will boost awareness and donations.
What would you say to encourage people to donate to this challenge? Your donation doesn’t just support me—it supports Ben’s mission to provide life-changing services to the automotive community. Whether you’re spurring me on or raising awareness of Ben’s incredible work, your contribution matters.
What would you say to encourage others to fundraise for Ben? If you’ve ever considered taking on a challenge like this, I can’t recommend it enough. Fundraising for Ben is a chance to make a real difference while setting a personal goal that inspires you to go the extra mile—literally!
Why have you decided to take part in the marathon? I try and take on a challenge for Ben every year and unfortunately last year I caught pneumonia three weeks before the London Marathon so had to pull out. Ben kindly re-allocated me the space this year although the lungs still don't quite feel back to what they were, but that could also be my age!
What made you decide to support Ben? The support Ben give to automotive industry employees in times of need is unrivalled.
How has training been? HARD! Cold, wet and miserable and often running around foreign towns in the dark getting lost! Why can't the London Marathon be in October so you at least have the summer to train in?!
What are you looking forward to? The buzz of the day - London is the best city in the world and I get to see most of it on foot.
How are you feeling about it? Excited to be part of such an amazing event with thousands of others who are doing something amazing for themselves personally but also to support others!
How are donations going? Slowly - it would helped if I shared my sponsorship link though!
What would you say to encourage people to donate to this challenge? I'm going to be in a lot of pain - that's got to be worth £20 to watch!
What would you say to encourage others to fundraise for Ben? Do not underestimate how much Ben needs your support. Just £5 a month would go a long way to making sure that if those around you (or god forbid yourself) need support that we all have Ben to turn to!
Why have you decided to take part in the marathon? I am running the race in memory of my Dad. He passed away on 23rd January 2024 after a short but brave battle with cancer.
What made you decide to support Ben? I am running for Ben as my Dad was offered amazing end of life care by the team at Town Thorns Care Home and I wanted to give something back as a way of saying thank you! The team were truly amazing. They made sure that my Dad maintained his dignity while offering the care and support needed.
How has training been? Training has been OK. I lost around one month due to a back injury and then Christmas hit. I'm now back out running and building up the miles. I'm getting lots of support from friends and family. I will be ready come race day and I'll do it for Dad!
What are you looking forward to? I ran the marathon in 2012 and what I'm looking forward to the most (apart from reaching the finish line) is the atmosphere, camaraderie and, of course, the well-earned McDonalds after the race!
How are you feeling about it? I'm feeling nervous but excited. My motivation is the memory of my Dad. He battled hard after his diagnosis and when times get tough, I will think of him!
How are donations going? Really well. I cracked the £1,000 barrier at Christmas, and I'm keeping everything crossed that I can reach the £2,000 target. My friends, collegues and family have been an amazing support!
What would you say to encourage people to donate to this challenge? Please give all you can. Cancer is an unforgiving disease and if it bites, we need people like Ben to support us and our families in the dark times.
What do you do in your day job? I am an automotive artist! I have been painting large scale artworks on canvas with radio controlled cars, tyres and wheels since 2008. The artworks are usually commissioned by OEM’s, motorsport brands and supply chain companies in the automotive and commercial vehicle industry. And sometimes, also for private collection.
Since 2020, I have started creating smaller scale drawings on paper. These are initially drawn in one continuous outline, without taking the pen off the paper and then worked on. I have over 2,200 drawings in this series.
Why have you decided to take part in the marathon? Back in April 2023, my wife and I decided to give the ‘couch to 5k’ programme a go at our local running group. From then on, we haven’t looked back! We have trained every Tuesday, first completing the 5k and then competing in races, including the 10k race at Silverstone.
I have now completed a number of timed races and four half marathons. London will be my first full distance marathon! In training for it, I’m also planning to run a number of motorsport venues and circuits around the UK.
What made you decide to support Ben? Alongside running the marathon, I wanted to raise the profile of a charity that provides support in the industry I've worked in for 17 years. I've previously supported Ben by creating artworks to auction at Ben Ball.
How has training been? Since confirming my place at the London marathon, I've been gradually increasing my training to four times a week. My workouts have been a mix of shorter distances at a faster pace and longer endurance runs, as well as races of half marathons.
I still run every Tuesday with the running group which started my journey and aim to beat my PB at every Parkrun (with varying success!).
I’ve really enjoyed the process of improvement and learning how to manage long distance running, physically and mentally.
What are you looking forward to? I remember taking part in my first half marathon race. It was emotional... a rollercoaster of pain and joy, not knowing if I would be able to complete it. When taking part in a race, there's always the excitement of the unknown but self-determination too.
I’m looking forward to the atmosphere of London, knowing it’s a race that so many runners and athletes want to take part in and complete.
How are you feeling about it? Excited, I feel prepared. As I continue my training, I listen to running podcasts by others who have run marathons and how they did it. I've already curated my music playlist and I'm looking forward to continuing my training.
How are donations going? Good so far. I’m sharing my journey and training across my social media platforms, engaging with updates on Strava and I'm planning a series of short videos when competing at upcoming events.
Throughout February and March, up until the Marathon, I’ll be continuing to promote the challenge.
What would you say to encourage people to donate to this challenge? Two years ago, I could barely run two minutes without needing a gasping break! Running has become an enjoyable shared experience with my wife and friends, and a healthy lifestyle choice.
Last year, work was TOUGH and a lot of things went wrong, which were out of my control. However, the resilience that my training has given me helped me immensely. The marathon has given me a new challenge and a goal I look forward to achieving.
Why have you decided to take part in the marathon? I love to challenge myself and see how far I can push my body. I have previously completed Kilimanjaro and rowing the Atlantic, both in support of Ben.
What made you decide to support Ben? I have worked in the motor industry for 18 years and have seen first hand the fantastic support that the charity provides. People rely on Ben's help every year and that's an incredible reason to get involved and make a difference.
How has training been? Running has never been a strength of mine which is one of the reasons I wanted to do this challenge. Training is going well and I'm started to enjoy the sport, I now understand 'runners high'.
What are you looking forward to? I'm looking forward to the final stages of the run where the finish line is in sight and the crowd is cheering us all on.
How are you feeling about it? I recently completed the Brass Monkey half marathon and this really put the distance into perspective.... But if I stick to my training plan then I know I've done everything I can.
How are donations going? I have only very recently pushed my sponsorship page and so far so good.
What would you say to encourage others to fundraise for Ben? Ben is a vital charity for the motor industry because it provides essential support to the people who keep the industry moving. Without Ben, many in the automotive industry would struggle to find the help they need during tough times. Supporting this charity ensures that those who dedicate their careers to the motor industry receive the care and support they deserve when they need it the most.
Why have you decided to take part in the marathon? Someone signed me up as a prank – and now who’s laughing!!!!
What made you decide to support Ben? Fantastic charity helping those in need and less fortunate in the industry I love.
How has training been? Very hard but rewarding in many ways.
What are you looking forward to? Running around the big smoke taking it all in on the big day.
How are you feeling about it? Very nervous but also excited and optimistic.
How are donations going? Good, also have loads of additional commitments to follow up on closer to the event.
What would you say to encourage people to donate to this challenge? Even £5 can help someone's life, please get involved!
What would you say to encourage others to fundraise for Ben? If you fell on hard times wouldn’t it be reassuring to know that you could call upon Ben to help you out?
Why have you decided to take part in the marathon?
In all honesty I put my name in the ballot like many others thinking there would be no chance of getting a place. Sure enough I received the “you’re in” email and here we are. I’m excited about taking myself out of my comfort zone and taking on a big challenge.
What made you decide to support Ben?
Ben has been there to support so many in the automotive industry including myself. I am forever grateful for the support I received from Ben and this is my way of saying thank you and giving back in some way.
How has training been? Before May this year I hadn’t run since school, other than on a rugby pitch. Starting from scratch with a seven-month old baby at home has really had its challenges. We welcomed our first born, Beauden, to the world in July but despite many sleepless nights I've already managed to complete 5k, 10k and half marathon races in preparation for the big one in April!
What are you looking forward to? The atmosphere, seeing family and friends supporting on the course and a nice cold beer at the finish line!
How are you feeling about it? Nervous but very excited!
How are donations going? Donations have already started to come in from friends and colleagues. I plan to have a big push now as we get closer to race day.
What would you say to encourage people to donate to this challenge? Please donate... when things get tough on marathon day what will help pull me through is knowing I’ve raised money for such a great charity.
What would you say to encourage others to fundraise for Ben?
Find a challenge, test yourself and raise some money for a fantastic charity!
Account Development and Social Media Manager at Simply Thank You
What do you do in your day job? I've just started a new role at Simply Thank You, an employee engagement and gifting company. I'm focused on growing clients and building a strong marketing presence—learning every day and loving the excitement!
Why have you decided to take part in the marathon? This is for sure the biggest challenge of my life! After recovering from a rather nasty injury 2023, I went from never being a runner to completing my first half marathon just six months later. Now, I’ve secured a spot in the London Marathon and want to prove that anything is possible with determination. The thought of running 26.2 miles is daunting, but I’m excited and ready for the challenge!
What made you decide to support Ben? I’ve chosen to run for Ben because I truly admire their dedication to improving health and wellbeing in the automotive industry. During my time at Novuna, I had the privilege of working closely with their fundraising team and saw first-hand the incredible impact that Ben has on people’s lives.
How has training been? Training has definitely had its ups and downs! I’m running at least three times a week, and while some days are easier than others, the weather really makes a difference. I love running when it’s sunny, light, cold - but rainy and windy days are tough! Running with friends has been great though—we’ve discovered new routes and shared plenty of laughs. A few blisters and sore legs along the way, but I’m feeling good and slowly building up the miles!
What are you looking forward to? I’m really looking forward to soaking up the atmosphere! Everyone says to enjoy the experience, take it all in, and not be too hard on myself, so that’s my plan. I can’t wait to run through London, see friends along the way, and, hopefully, cross that finish line. It still feels unreal to even say I’m doing the London Marathon!
How are you feeling about it? I’m feeling a bit nervous right now (good nerves I think!!). It’s a big step up from a half marathon, and the Bath marathon was tough! But I’m also really excited about the experience and what an amazing challenge it’s going to be.
How are donations going? They are good well so far - I’ve had amazing support from friends, family, neighbours.... and I’m hoping they keep trickling in to help me reach the highest total I can!
What would you say to encourage people to donate to this challenge? Please support me and help get me across that finish line! It’s going to be a tough challenge, so I’m super grateful for any donation—every little bit really helps!
What would you say to encourage others to fundraise for Ben? Take a look at the incredible work Ben does. They make a huge difference in the automotive sector, supporting people across the country in ways many don’t realise. It’s an amazing charity that works tirelessly to help others so if you're looking for someone to fundraise for, definitely consider Ben!
Why have you decided to take part in the marathon? I completed the marathon last year for the first time and enjoyed the achievement of raising money for those less fortunate.
What made you decide to support Ben? Ben has always been close to my heart, having witnessed the help they have given people around me over the years.
How has training been? I’ve just started my official training plan and it’s hard but enjoyable. I’m currently running 5 days a week and between 40-50 miles per week.
What are you looking forward to? The same feeling of achievement as 2024.
How are you feeling about it? Excited, focused and determined.
How are donations going? I’m just about to embark on the mission of cashing in the promises already made!
What would you say to encourage people to donate to this challenge? This amazing charity does so much for people in our industry, and they really do need every penny. Even £1 can make a difference. One day it could be me, you or someone close that needs Ben's support.
What would you say to encourage others to fundraise for Ben? Do it, the feelings of achievement, making a difference and giving back to people who need help is a amazing.
What do you do in your day job? I'm VP of Sales and I have responsibility for all UK sales across all our brands.
Why have you decided to take part in the marathon? I'm slightly addicted to be honest! This will be my sixth marathon and all for charity. I love the build-up, training and daily discipline required, the atmosphere on the day and the fact that, in pushing myself to the very limit, I'm equally helping a good cause.
What made you decide to support Ben? We are heavily invested in the UK fleet and transportation market, owning fuel card brands such as Allstar and Keyfuels. Many of our customers are the UK's largest fleets of cars, vans and trucks whose drivers and employees are supported by Ben. We chose Ben as our sales charity of the year and fundraised throughout 2024.
How has training been? Good so far! At the time of writing this, I was averaging 25 miles per week. It ramps up quickly now and by the end of February, it will be 45 miles per week!
What are you looking forward to? Turning the final corner outside Buckingham Palace and seeing the finishing line.
How are you feeling about it? Good... I've got to beat 3.45!
How are donations going? Ok, I'm about halfway to my target.
What would you say to encourage people to donate to this challenge? Who voluntarily runs 26.2 miles?! It's very hard no matter how fit you are and Ben is superb charity doing fabulous work.
What would you say to encourage others to fundraise for Ben? It's a fabulous charity operating in a space that that may often be overlooked.
