Hi, my name is Geoff. My running career started at the tender age of about ten, on days when rugby pitches were waterlogged and my school’s Plan B was a cross-country run - certainly no carbon-fibre assisted trainers or sports watches then.

In the following 70 years, although mainly savouring the wildness and variety of fell running, I completed fifteen road marathons between 1980 and 2000 with a best of 2h 47m. In 2004 upon turning 60, I eased-off endurance events hoping to prolong my running days, although still regularly supporting my daughter in the London Marathon (in the genes?).

However the pandemic lockdowns stirred me into realising that ‘if you’ve still got it, use it’, so, as I turn 80 this year* the temptation of one more go at the iconically special London Marathon became irresistible - particularly as an opportunity for trying to raise funds for a charity I admire greatly and fully support - Outside The Box.

5k parkruns, in around twenty five minutes, are my usual events these days, so over four hours of relentless marathon running on tarmac will be a major challenge but one that I hope will allow me to raise money funds for this remarkable charity. Thank you in advance!

*leap year day, of all days, so in reality just a whipper snapper of only 20 birthdays!

He dedicates his run to Peter Shields an exceptional friend, coach and inspiration who committed his life to helping Ilkley runners and many way beyond!

*UPDATE* Geoff is very grateful and moved by all the donations received and hopes to thank as many people as possible in person. To those he doesn’t know personally, or may not meet, he wishes to convey his enormous thanks through this website