Andy Corbett, a keen runner who was recently selected to take part in this year’s London Marathon on 26th April, is raising money for two charities close to his heart - Calvert Devon and the Injured Jockey’s Fund. As part of the challenge, and to drive fundraising support, the miles Andy will be running in April will be relative to the date of the month. That means that while many other runners will be kicking back and preparing themselves for the marathon the day before, Andy will be buckling down on a whopping 25 miles, before tackling the gruelling 26 miles on the big day.

It’s a significant mental and physical challenge for Andy, with a total of 351 miles to be covered overall, but the charities he is supporting makes all the hard work worth it.

Calvert Devon is an activity centre based at Whistlepound Reservoir, Exmoor. It makes outdoor activities accessible to all, including disabled people and their families. Andy’s five-year-old nephew, Reuben, lives with Lowes Syndrome, affecting the eyes, kidneys and muscles and bones. As a result, Reuben has suffered many broken bones at a young age. Reuben, his older brother Finley and their parents have benefited from days out at Calvert Devon, spending quality time as a family together.

Andy said: “Calvert Devon really encompasses the whole family of disabled children. They’re able to stay there and enjoy the activities together, and it’s also a chance for siblings to have some fun.”

Andy is also fundraising for the Injured Jockey’s Fund (IJF), as he previously received support from the charity during his time as an amateur jockey. As the only sport in which participants are followed by an ambulance, the IJF is a vital part of injured jockeys’ recoveries and, if they are unable to continue with their careers due to injury, the charity supports them for as long as possible. Andy is running several times a week, including twice a week with Launceston Road Runners, and is using Abs-solute Health and Fitness for strength training as the marathon approaches.

With hopes to raise £4,000, Andy said: “Every penny counts! It’s for two fantastic charities, and it’s seeing that charity money coming in that keeps me going. Thank you very much to everyone who has supported me.”

Launceston Road Runners is open to people of all abilities. See launcestonroadrunners.co.uk for more information.

To support Andy on his fundraising journey, visit Marathon Month Challenge - GiveWheel