Fundraisers from across Tendring put their running shoes on to come up with the case for charity in the 25^th anniversary Flora London Marathon. 

One Frinton family’s effort paid off beyond their wildest dreams.  Sarah Perry, 32, died tragically after a long battle with anorexia.  And since then her father, Chris Perry, and his wife Sally, of Harold Grove, Frinton, together with their four other children, have mounted a campaign to save others and raise money for the Eating Disorders Association charity. 

On Sunday, brothers Tom, 34, Giles, 31, Luke, 28, and sister Charlotte. 30, were among the 35,000 runners.  They had hoped to boost their funds from £16,000 to £20,000 but it now looks likely it will be nearer £22,000 thanks to all the support they have received.  Tom completed the course in 4hrs 47mins while the others arrived together in 5hrs 29mins. 

Chad Harrison, of Anchor Road, Clacton, ran his first marathon in six hours to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Relief.  Mr Harrison, 33, joined a team of more than 650 runners of all ages as part of Team Macmillan. 

He said: “The first few miles were no problem but when I got to Tower Bridge my shoulders gave way.” 

Mr Harrison, who is a signalman for Network Rail, is now gathering sponsorship money in, which he expects to be about £3,000.  It will also be matched up to £1,200 by his company.  He is now hoping to run again next year to raise funds for a children’s charity. 

Weeley farmer David Partridge completed his second and last marathon in 4hrs 57mins. 

“I was on for a much better time but hit a wall at 23 miles,” he said.  Mr Partridge hopes to raise about £2,000 for the Meningitis Trust. 

Clacton policeman PC Trevor Abrahams was also collecting sponsorship after successfully completing the marathon.  He is hoping to raise more than £1,000 for CRY (Cardiac Risk  in the Young).  Also running for CRY were Clacton Ladies Hockey Club members Julie Smith and Sarah Morton. 

It was their first marathon and Julia came home in 5hrs 34mins while Sarah finished in just over six hours.  They hope to collect about £3,000 for their charity. 

“It was the most fantastic day – and if I can do it anyone can,” said Julia.