London Marathon 2025: The local runners who joined thousands across the finish line
In the glorious spring sunshine, thousands of runners took to the streets of the capital on Sunday to take part in the TCS London Marathon.
Many were running for good causes close to their hearts.
And Newbury woman Victoria Gill was no exception.
She was raising money for Daisy’s Dream, a children’s bereavement charity after she lost her mother when she was just three-years-old.
“I feel proud of myself for completing the marathon and for all the money I raised for the charity,” she said afterwards.
“I also feel really thankful towards everyone who donated to the charity.
“I feel very grateful that I have an amazing family who not only came along and supported me all day at the marathon but also helped me massively with my fundraising.”
The 42-year-old, who works at Vision Express in Northbrook Street, lost her mother Margaret when she died suddenly from a heart attack in September 1986.
She only took up running a year-and-a-half ago but was “really excited” to take on the 26.2-mile challenge.
And she was not the only one.
Jack James not only took part in this year’s marathon but finished the course despite having had an ankle injury.
“It was his first ever marathon. I’m so proud of him,” said his mother, Jill James.
The 29-year-old lives in Newbury and works for energy procurement specialist Fidelity Energy, based in Bartholomew Street.
Kate Stevens ran with her daughter Ellie, who turned 18 in November, for the Lullaby Trust, finishing three seconds apart with 4.37.08 and 4.37.05 respectively.
“It took slightly longer than we hoped but it was a hot day, so we are pleased with our times,” she said.
She continued: “I’m so proud of Ellie for letting nothing get in her way and living her best life in the sunshine, eating sweets and enjoying running through the streets of London.
“I was extremely nervous in the run up to the marathon. I had a knee niggle but with physio and a slower pace I made it round comfortably.”
The pair also raised an “amazing amount” of money for the charity, which is close to their heart.
“The charity was a great support to me after I lost my daughter Anna,” Kate added.
And Lesley Wellsman, who lives and works in Newbury, ran the marathon with her two children Charlie and Amber, raising just under £4,000 for Cancer Research UK in the process.
She said: “I’m a regular runner but this was my first marathon.
“I finished in 4:08:24, which I am super chuffed with.”
She added: “So many people I know have been affected by cancer and the fact I have raised this money is truly quite emotional.”
This year’s marathon set a new world record for the number of finishers despite the hot conditions, with a total of 56,640 runners crossing the finish line at the end of the 26.2-mile route.
Did you take part? Share your stories and pictures with us at newsdesk@newburynews.co.uk
