18 Feb 2025
After a ten-year hiatus from marathon running, Hamelin supporter Gaynor Walton is lacing up her running shoes to support the charity.
This April, the 51-year-old will take on the iconic London Marathon, driven by her passion to make a difference for autistic people and adults with learning disabilities.
Originally from Chelmsford and now living in Leicestershire, Gaynor secured her spot for the marathon in the ballot, but wanted to use the opportunity to give something back to a cause that she remembers from her time in Essex. With her husband working as a psychologist supporting individuals with learning disabilities and autistic people, she understands first-hand the challenges they face in accessing the support they need.
This will be Gaynor’s fourth marathon, having previously completed the London Marathon in 2009, the Loch Ness Marathon in 2010, and the Stratford Marathon in 2015. Her personal best stands at an impressive 4 hours and 9 minutes, and while breaking the 4-hour barrier remains a dream, she would be thrilled to finish under 4 hours and 30 minutes.
Speaking about her motivation, Gaynor said: “We take things for granted, so it’s good to do it for people who need the support. Running for a charity makes so much sense, not only am I giving something back, but it’s a real incentive for me to get up and train – I don’t want to let anybody down!
“I chose to run for Hamelin because it’s important that local charities get support and recognition; they do fantastic work which often goes unnoticed.
“I’m ready for the challenge – it’s been a decade years since my last marathon, so it’ll be good to put myself through the paces once again.”
Hamelin is extremely grateful for Gaynor’s dedication and wishes her the best of luck. You can donate via www.justgiving.com/page/gaynor-walton-1735887141537