by Alan Quick

A FORMER Crediton student will be running the London Marathon in April to raise funds for the charity, Balloons.

Mark O’Higgins (37), who grew up in Thorverton, was previously a student at Queen Elizabeth’s School in Crediton.

He now lives in Exeter and works at the local Virgin Money Store in South Street.

He explained: “At Virgin Money Exeter we nominate a local charity each year that we support.

“This year we decided to support Balloons, a charity that helps and supports children and young adults who have lost a parent or sibling.

“We have done a few static cycle rides in Princesshay and Guildhall shopping centre’s during the last few months to help raise money and awareness but now I will be running 26.2 miles in the London Marathon on April 24.

“Last summer my wife Tracey had completed the Race for Life and my son, Kian, completed the Great West Run in October.

“Once he finished he pointed out that I needed to do a run and this coincided with a staff ballot for the Virgin Money London Marathon so I put my name down not expecting to get a place.

“I obviously was successful in getting a place and panicked a little as I had only run a small amount in the past but suffered with injuries.

“I’m more of a mountain biker than runner now so the thought of completing the marathon is more than daunting!

“I have been training three times a week in all weathers, wind, rain and frost, and it’s been really hard but the thing that really keeps me motivated to train is the people who have sponsored me so far - people who have given up their hard-earned cash to help me support Balloons and raise money for this wonderful local charity.

“I’m hoping to raise £1,000 and so far I’ve raised about £250 so hope people will take the time to click on my Virgin Money Giving Page and support Balloons: http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/MarkOHiggins .