Harlow MP Chris Vince Joins Team St Clare for London Marathon Fundraiser
With the London Marathon just a few weeks away, a dedicated team of nine runners, blending seasoned athletes and first-time participants, is poised to tackle the 26.2-mile challenge with a collective fundraising goal of £15,000 for St Clare Hospice. This substantial sum has the potential to finance 48 hours of specialized, round-the-clock care on the charity's Inpatient Unit, providing critical support to patients in need.
Political Figure Takes on Personal Challenge
Among the participants is Chris Vince, the Member of Parliament for Harlow and the surrounding villages, who recently visited St Clare Hospice to collect his official 'team St Clare' running vest. In his first marathon attempt, Vince expressed excitement about the event, emphasizing his commitment to supporting this vital local cause. He noted that training has become an integral part of his routine, with scenic river runs serving as a highlight, though he humorously admitted to a slow pace in practice.
Chris Vince stated: "This is my first time running a marathon, but I am very excited about running it, particularly as I am doing it to support such an important local cause as St Clare. I know how much of a difference they make day in day out to the people of Harlow and the villages. I don't have any specific time in mind, in training I have been very slow, but I am just determined to run the whole way around."
Vince has set a personal fundraising target of £2,500, with efforts ongoing as race day approaches. Supporters can contribute to his campaign through the St Clare Hospice website under his dedicated marathon page.
Hospice Leadership Expresses Gratitude
Rosie Knowles, deputy CEO of St Clare Hospice, highlighted the significance of the runners' efforts, especially during a period of increased demand for hospice care and funding challenges across the UK. She praised the physical and mental dedication required for a marathon, underscoring how every contribution directly impacts the hospice's ability to offer compassionate support.
Rosie Knowles added: "We’re incredibly grateful to Chris, and to all the runners supporting St Clare at the London Marathon this year. A marathon is an enormous physical and mental challenge and choosing to take it on for our hospice means a great deal. At a time when demand for our care is increasing and funding is difficult for hospices across the UK, the money raised will help ensure we can continue to provide compassionate support to local people facing the hardest moments of their lives. Every pound and every step truly make a difference."
Meet the Full St Clare Marathon Team
The team of runners, alongside Chris Vince, includes a diverse group of individuals from various locations, all united in their mission to support St Clare Hospice:
- Jonny Speller – Epping
- Barney Wain – Epping
- Chloe Robinson – Dunmow
- Joe Hynes – Harlow
- Alix Williams – Dunmow
- Anna Sherring – London
- Peter Ely – Harlow
- Katherine Gornall – Broxbourne
This initiative not only showcases community spirit but also highlights the ongoing need for charitable support in healthcare services, with the London Marathon serving as a powerful platform for fundraising and awareness.
