Local men in London Marathon

TWO runners from Melksham raised thousands in sponsorship when they joined nearly 40,000 people taking part in the Virgin Money London Marathon last month.

Mike Dobbin and Robbie Newton both completed the 36th running of the world-famous race to raise money for cancer charities.

Melksham resident Mike ran the marathon for the first time this year to raise money for Prostate Cancer UK, after his father was treated for the disease a couple of years ago.

Mike said, “I finished the race in 4hrs 29mins. I was slower than I wanted to be, as I was trying to break the 4 hour mark, but not too disappointed because it was such an amazing experience.

“I will have life-long memories  of the fantastic support from all of the crowds and everyone else who ran.

“I’d like to thank everyone that sponsored me and help me exceed my target and raise over £2,200. I want to give special thanks to my wife Sharon and cousin Andy for getting through all the crowds to follow me around the course, and it was great to see them so close to the finish line.”

Robbie, assistant manager at Travis Perkins in Melksham, ran the marathon as part of a year-long string of fundraisers for Macmillan Cancer Support.

He said, “A slight knee injury reared its ugly head after only two miles but I managed to finish the course in 4hrs 40mins.

“The whole day was amazing and the support was incredible. At any point that I was struggling, I just had to look around and there were so many people willing me on, especially the Macmillan cheer squad!

“Having my parents and fiancée there really helped, as well as motivation from everyone who has supported me with sponsors and help.

“It was three years to the day that my friend Chris Penelhum died of testicular cancer, so I was a bit emotional as I crossed the line.

“I still have nine events of my challenge left to go, but think the biggest one is now out of the way! So far I’ve raised £2,942 and the figure is still rising.”