On your marks! Meet these ‘incredible’ runners and fundraisers from across Spen Valley ready for London Marathon

Over one million people applied in the public ballot to enter into the annual event, with around 60,000 runners now getting ready to head to the start line at Greenwich Park this Sunday (April 26).

Many runners will be supporting a wide range of causes close to their hearts - from cancer research and dementia support to autism services and end-of-life care.

Among those from Spen Valley is Claire Lomas from Mirfield, who secured a ballot place in her first ever marathon and is running for Cancer Research UK.

The 46-year-old was inspired by the loss of her five-year-old nephew Zach to a brain tumour and by several close friends currently undergoing treatment.

Speaking ahead of the race, Claire said she is most looking forward to “the ending” and simply hopes to “complete and enjoy it”, adding that training has “taken over my entire life for a year.”

Claire’s husband had entered the marathon lottery for 20 years unsuccessfully – and on her first try she secured a place. Her husband has been training alongside her and encouraging her every step of the way.

Dominic Camponi, from Liversedge and a teacher at Headlands School, is running in support of The Whole Autism Family. Dominic stepped in at short notice after a fellow runner was forced to withdraw due to injury and will also take on the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon just two weeks later for his 15th marathon.

He is also a regular volunteer at the annual ‘Run for Jo’ at Oakwell Hall.

Laura Hall, 40, from Mirfield, is returning to the London Marathon for the second time, this year running alongside her father, 65, from Hartshead, who is taking part for the first time in 24 years.

They are raising funds for Lymphoma Action after Laura’s mother was diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma just before Christmas 2024. Laura said she is especially looking forward to crossing Tower Bridge again, where “the atmosphere is electric.”

Aaron Fisher, from Birkenshaw, gained a ballot place and is running for Marie Curie, having originally trained to support his wife who narrowly missed out on a place.

A keen runner for seven years, Aaron regularly takes part in Parkrun at Oakwell Hall Country Park and has battled through challenging spring weather - including hailstorms - as part of his training.

Paul Szynkowski is also taking part following a personal family health scare, after his mother suffered a heart attack two years ago. He is running in support of Heart Research UK, a charity that plays a crucial role in funding innovative heart research and supporting those affected by heart disease.

Another participant is James Khan who is running for Dementia UK in memory of his grandmother.

James said: “The impact this had on her and the wider family is the reason I am raising money for such an important charity.

“Seeing her memory decline was heart breaking, and no-one should have to experience losing part of themselves.”

In a unique fundraising effort, James will attempt to break a world record by completing the marathon dressed as a road vehicle!

Kim Leadbeater, the MP for Spen Valley, welcomed the group of inspirational residents to her constituency office to celebrate their efforts.

She said: “It was an absolute pleasure to welcome these incredible local runners to my office and hear their stories.

“Each of them is taking on an enormous personal challenge, but what really stands out is their commitment to supporting others - whether that’s through funding vital research, supporting families, or raising awareness of important causes.

“Spen Valley is incredibly proud of them all. I wish them the very best of luck for marathon day - we’ll all be cheering them on every step of the way.”

The Reporter Series reported earlier in the month that Alissa Bowman, at 18, will be one of the youngest runners in this year’s London Marathon.

Diagnosed with a rare brain tumour at 15, she has undergone intensive treatment at Leeds General Infirmary, which reduced the tumour by 90 per cent. Now, she is taking on the marathon with her dad and brother to raise money for Young Lives vs Cancer, saying she is “really excited” and determined to complete the challenge.

Kim is encouraging any other local residents taking part in the London Marathon to get in touch with her office for support in promoting their fundraising efforts.