Leyland Trucks worker drives funds for St Catherine’s with marathon effort

A Leyland man who was told he would struggle to run again after injury has completed the London Marathon in support of St Catherine’s Hospice.

Martyn Thomas, a quality engineer for Leyland Trucks, pounded the pavements of London to complete the gruelling 26.2 mile challenge in a fantastic three hours, 59 minutes and 23 seconds.

Martyn said: “My family are keen runners; I’ve always wanted to complete a marathon but five years ago I tore a ligament in my knee and was told I wouldn’t be able to run properly again. I have been determined to increase the strength in my leg and fulfil my dream to complete a marathon.

“It was the best thing I’ve ever done – apart from getting married to my wife of course!”

Martyn decided to use the challenge to raise funds for St Catherine’s in memory of a friend’s mum.

He said: “St Catherine’s Hospice is my local charity, the care and support they provide is absolutely fantastic and very much appreciated.

“I’ve always supported St Catherine’s individually and through work – Leyland Trucks regularly supports the hospice through the company ‘Helping Hands’ charity initiative.

“And the mother of a friend of mine was cared for in the hospice before she died – so I dedicated the 26 miles to her.”

St Catherine’s fundraising officer, Hayley Jackson, said: “We’d like to say a huge thank you to Martyn who has raised an incredible £2,065 for the hospice.

“Martyn’s determination to not only complete a marathon, but to overcome an injury in order to do so is very inspiring. The money he has raised will help us to be there for local people facing life-shortening illnesses when they need it most.”

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