A local MP who has raised thousands of pounds for charity will take on his fourth London Marathon in October.
James Duddridge, MP for Rochford and Southend East, has announced he will run this year’s iconic 26.2-mile race on behalf of Diabetes UK.
Each year, James runs the London Marathon for a different charity, having already raised a total of £7,669 for good causes including Havens Hospices, HARP, and Southend Samaritans.
Official figures show there are more than 10,000 people living with diabetes in the Southend area.
James was diagnosed with diabetes about 5 years ago. He takes insulin to manage the condition and monitors his blood glucose regularly.
Commenting, James said:
"I am delighted to be supporting Diabetes UK by running my fourth London Marathon in October.
“I was diagnosed with diabetes about five years ago and take insulin to manage my blood sugar levels.
"The recent hot weather has made training tricky, but I am really looking forward to taking on the challenge of a marathon once again.
“Every pound raised will help this fantastic cause to continue supporting the millions of people affected by diabetes, and fund research that will one day lead us to a cure.”
Helen Kirrane, Head of Policy, Campaigns and Mobilisation at Diabetes UK, said:
"We are incredibly grateful to James for taking on the TCS London Marathon to raise money for Diabetes UK.
“Our much-needed work wouldn’t be possible without the determination and generosity of people like him.
“Running a marathon is no mean feat and we wish James all the best on 2nd October. The money raised will help fund ground-breaking research, our information and support for people with living diabetes, and those at risk of developing type 2 diabetes, and campaigns that can change the lives of those living with and affected by the condition.”
Those who would like to donate can do so by visiting justgiving.com/jamesduddridgemp.
