Help my marathon effort to raise cash for charity

A RUNNING enthusiast who will be taking part in the London Marathon is looking for raffle prizes to help raise money for his chosen charity.

Chris Wray, who is part of Cleethorpes Athletics Club, wants to raise money for St John Ambulance and he is asking businesses to help.

He hopes to meet celebrities and see the sights of London to keep him going during the gruelling race in April.

"It will be my first marathon, so I am not sure what to expect," said Chris, 41, from Cleethorpes.

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"I've always wanted to run one and I hope I don't physically 'hit the wall' and then can't complete the race. I want to finish under four hours.

"I can't wait to say that I've completed a marathon for a worthwhile cause and to be part of the atmosphere and buzz of the race.

"I'm really looking forward to running over Tower Bridge and mixing with people."

He has been running up to 18 miles in training, and hopes to raise more than £1,500.

"I believe St John Ambulance is a very worthy cause because they do such a fantastic job with helping people," added Chris, who works as a payroll administrator at Five Star Fish.

"Training is going well and I have been running three times a week around Cleethorpes, down North Sea Lane and on the beach.

"Until three years ago, I had never been into running and now I really enjoy being part of a running club.

"I have been doing speed work, by making my pace quicker every 30 seconds, because it will help make my finishing time quicker.

"It will be fantastic to say that I have completed one of the most renowned marathons, and raised money for a great cause at the same time."

Chris is thinking of doing a time-slot raffle where people put money on what time he will cross the finish line.

He added: "I thought this type of raffle would be more exciting and people will hopefully get a prize at the end of it!

"I'd be very grateful if businesses could donate anything from a bottle of wine, vouchers, a free hair cut to a month's free gym membership."

Get involved

If you want to donate a prize, call Chris on 07792 235944. To sponsor him, visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/christopherwray

If you are running the marathon this year, get in touch with the Telegraph newsroom by calling 01472 372236 or by e-mailing newsdesk@grimsbytelegraph.co.uk