Liz takes on London Marathon for Hospiscare

If you have ever considered taking on the ambitious challenge of running a marathon but haven’t got round to it yet, then Liz Searle may be the inspiration you need to sign up.

Already having five marathons under her belt and at 74 years young, Liz is about to embark on her sixth, joining the other 38,000 people who will take part in this year’s London Marathon.

Liz commented, “I follow the marathon training programme and around a month before the event itself you do your longest run.  I have just completed a 22 miler from the centre of Exeter to Dawlish Warren and back, so I am now ready for the big day.”

“When I first started running marathons it took me around 5 hours and 20 minutes to complete, but recently I have run faster.  Last year’s marathon was under 5 hours and I often say as long as I can finish before Christmas I’ll keep signing up!”

As always, Liz is running to raise money for local charity Hospiscare.  Liz and husband John Searle were the driving force behind the group which in 1982 established Hospiscare with just two community nurses.

Liz said “Hospiscare has been part of our hearts and lives for almost 40 years.  The organisation makes such a big difference to patients and families when they need it the most. Over the years by running marathons I have raised £31,719 for Hospiscare, so I hope I can add at least another £5,000 to that total this year. This year is a bit special as I will be running the Marathon on April 23rd, the day after our 50th wedding anniversary. John and I agreed that I would still run and postpone the celebrations so that Hospiscare will still benefit!”

Liz won’t be alone when she sets off on the 23rd April; her son Tim is also running this year so it will be a family affair.  If you would like to support Liz in her epic effort then visit JustGiving to donate.

And if you still need persuading to try a marathon take advice from Liz who says, “If you have the chance to run a marathon then do it and enjoy it.  You’ll be so thrilled when you finish and you’ll be part of a special club of people who ran a marathon!”

Hospiscare is a local charity, providing free, high quality care and support to people with a progressive life-limiting illness, and those close to them in Exeter, Mid and East Devon.