NFU pair preparing for London Marathon

Two of the NFU Welshpool team are swapping the rolling Welsh hills for the big smoke as they put on their running shoes and brave 26 miles at the London Marathon.

Ella Phillips from Llanfair Caereinion, and Sian Danford from Welshpool, who both work in the NFU office in Welshpool, are enduring a vigorous training and fitness schedule as they prepare for the Virgin Money London Marathon 2016 on Sunday,  April 24.

Ella has chosen to run in aid of a charity close to her heart. She will be raising money for Children with Cancer after her little brother was unfortunately diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia when he was just three months old. He was the first baby treated at Addenbrookes Hospital in Cambridge with this type of cancer.

Ella Phillips said; “My little brother underwent a trial chemotherapy programme and the prognosis was 50/50. After months of tough medication Sam’s treatment was successful and today he is a bright loving 14 year old.

“I decided to run the London Marathon to challenge myself. I remember the first time my mum ran it; she said she would do it over 100 times just for the sense of achievement at the finish line. I want to feel that and I want to know I have helped and supported, in a big way, the great cause I’m running for.

“My training plan is an intermediate schedule, consisting of two rest days a week and an increase of my longest run by15-30 minutes each week. This allows me to essentially improve by a mile each week. I am really looking forward to completing this challenge and raising valuable funds for Children with Cancer.”

Sian has chosen to fundraise for a more local charity, Severn Hospice, which offers specialist care for families across Shropshire and Mid Wales who are living with incurable illness.

Severn Hospice is a charity Sian has real affection towards after they presented overwhelming support to her family when her Nan was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

After completing a half marathon in September, Sian wanted to go one step further and conquer the full 26 miles. Over the past few months she has been building up her running distance and endurance and is training at least three times a week.   

Sian commented; “The Severn Hospice was incredible in looking after my Nan during her final days. I was only in my mid teens at the time; to watch a treasured family member deteriorate was extremely tough.

“The Severn Hospice provided us with the reassurance and peace of mind that my Nan’s final days were as restful as possible - we are all forever indebted to their help, care and emotional support.