Anita Takes On The 2026 London Marathon For Age UK MST

A short while ago, we put out a call to our supporters to see who might be interested in taking on the 2026 London Marathon on our behalf.

We were overwhelmed by the hugely positive response we received, and are so grateful to everyone who took the time to apply for our ballot space. Anita was the person we chose to represent us with our ballot space.

A keen runner and somebody who has undertaken a staggering 54 races before, we are delighted that Anita has chosen to fundraise for Age UK Maidstone, Sevenoaks and Tonbridge. 

Follow this page for monthly updates on her progress - and head to her fundraising page if you would like to support her further: https://2026tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/anita-card. You can also read more from Neet below:

I’m a passionate runner! I may not have a six-speed gearbox or turbo boost, but once I’m up to pace I’ll keep going reliably for miles. Like an old engine with a manual choke, it might take me a moment to warm up, but I’ll always get there—and I’ll keep ticking along long after the flashy cars have pulled over.

Running for me is about steady reliability, not speed. I plod through the miles like a faithful classic—dependable, consistent, and happiest cruising along woodland lanes. No frills, no fuss, just built to last.

Last year I retrained as a fitness instructor, turning a lifelong hobby into a career I truly love. I now coach CrossFit, lead exercise classes for older adults, and run dementia-friendly exercise sessions that focus not only on fitness, but also on connection, laughter, and community.

I’m running the London Marathon for Age UK MST because I believe older people should be valued, seen, and celebrated. Too often they are overlooked, but they deserve opportunities to stay active, enjoy quality time, and feel part of something bigger. Supporting Age UK MST perfectly reflects my values—showing that age is never a barrier to living fully.

Nickname? Neet

How long have you been running? 16years

First race entered? Crowborough 10k

Most unusual race run? Half marathon at Brands Hatch circuit (it looks flat on the TV!)

Running Style? Plodder

Will run for? Cake and medals!

Favourite playlist? Anything 80’s!

Known for? Tripping up!

How many races have you done? 54

Favourite distance? Half Marathon

Favourite place to run? Woods

Have you ever run a Marathon? No!

Neet's September Running Diary

Cakes eaten: 6 -Jam Swiss roll, Jamaica ginger, walnut, lemon drizzle, Jam doughnut and flapjack.

Miles run: Lots.

Mud level: Starting to increase.

Favourite place this month: Ightham Mote

Animals Encountered: 6 - Sheep, Horses , Squirrels, Rabbits, Pheasants (accidentally found myself in actual race with them – they won) Dogs – many.

Running Conditions: September sees the season changes, acorns and conkers drop and the official start of Mud Season. Puddles start to appear.

Attire: Refusing to surrender to leggings. Determined to stay in shorts + vest until at least November! I have my own inbuilt heating system!!

The summary of September saw some lovely blue skies and some rain!