James Duddridge MP has revealed he is training for his third London Marathon and this year he is raising funds for two suicide prevention charities.
The Member of Parliament for Rochford and Southend East is hoping to smash his previous fundraising record, with the money being split between Southend Samaritans and The Rose Paterson Trust.
Both charities work to prevent and raise awareness of suicide, which James says is vital to saving lives.
“I am delighted to be raising money for these two really important charities by running my third London Marathon,” James said.
“Many people will be aware of the work that Southend Samaritans do, but perhaps not so familiar with The Rose Paterson Trust.
“This charity was set up by my colleague, Owen Patterson MP, after his wife sadly took her own life in June 2020.
“Before the event, the family had no idea she would take her own life, so awareness of this issue and education are critical to saving lives.”
James began his running journey with a “Couch to 5k”, before taking on his first London Marathon in 2019, completing the run in 4 hours and 36 minutes and raising £3,404 for Havens Hospices.
Last year the London Marathon was held virtually due to the pandemic, however, the MP still managed to raise £1,360 for Southend’s homeless charity HARP, completing the run in 6 hours and 40 minutes.
“I am currently up to about 16 miles in my training plan with about 7 weeks to go,” James continued.
“I am really looking forward to it, it’s always a special occasion, and hopefully I can beat my previous fundraising target for these two fantastic charities.”
Those who would like to donate can do so by visiting jamesduddridge.com/donate.
Those in need of support or would like more information about the charities can visit samaritans.org or rosepatersontrust.com.
Photo: James recently visited the Southend Samaritans team at their office on Victoria Avenue.
