An Isle of Wight man is set to take on the 2026 TCS London Marathon next month in support of a charity close to his heart.
Chris Murray will line up at the start of the 26.2-mile race on Sunday 26th April, raising funds for Smile4Wessex, a charity supporting the Wessex Neurological Centre at Southampton General Hospital.
Despite being an experienced runner, this will be Chris’s first marathon. He secured the charity’s single place in 2025 but was forced to defer his entry due to injury. Now fully fit, he has been training intensively and is aiming to complete the course in between 3.5 and 4 hours.
Chris is taking on the challenge not only as a personal milestone, but also to give back to the charity after seeing its work first-hand. His father-in-law received treatment at the Wessex Neurological Centre for a brain tumour in 2023.
Chris has said:
“My training plan is going well and I am looking forward to April now. It’s a privilege to run for Smile4Wessex in aid of The Wessex Neurological Centre.”
The Wessex Neurological Centre provides specialist care to around four million people across the South Coast, including the Isle of Wight. It treats a range of conditions such as brain tumours, stroke, epilepsy and dementia.
Smile4Wessex supports the centre by funding enhanced facilities, improving patient care and backing research to help maintain high standards of treatment.
A spokesperson for the charity has said:
“We are delighted that Chris has chosen to represent Smile4Wessex. Undertaking a marathon is no mean feat – 26.2 miles is tough and a significant physical and mental challenge and we wish him the very best of luck.”
Chris is now continuing his preparations ahead of race day next month.
To support Chris, visit his fundraising page here.
