Ex St John’s and Dauntsey’s student runs London Marathon for Save the Children

Duncan de Vere Lorrain, a keen sportsman, who grew up in Marlborough and attended local schools and sports clubs, completed Sunday’s London Marathon in an impressive 3 hours and 38 minutes in order to raise money for Save the Children (STC).  He commented, “The experience was unlike anything else. Everyone has a ‘why’ they’re running. To be a part of so many inspirational ‘why’ stories was, in all honesty, an absolute privilege.” Duncan has so far raised £1500 for STC. If you would like to sponsor Duncan please go to his Just Giving fundraising page here.

Duncan who currently works for an international aid consultancy based in Brussels told marlborough.news, “Having worked in Sub-Saharan Africa over the last 4 years, I have seen first-hand the amazing work Save the Children is doing across the continent. Amidst political conflict, climate crises, and the Covid-19 pandemic, STC is doing its utmost to ensure children are given the best possible opportunities in life despite the desperate circumstances.

Particular cases in Somalia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo bring to light some of the organisation’s vital initiatives such as education and health centres which, without further funding, risk being closed down towards the end of 2023. Given the contexts in which I work, I feel that myself and Save the Children share many of the same values, inspiring me to accept this challenge, and motivating me to make a substantial contribution to their work.”

Despite being a keen sportsman, Duncan trained carefully for the marathon. His training programme was designed by a London-based running company called Stepback Fitness, and began back in December of last year. Duncan said, “It has meant many cold nights out on my own with headphones in and a head torch on, trying my best to sustain a weekly mileage of approximately 60km, as well as regular sessions in the pool and gym.

Ultimately, it has involved a lot of sacrifices and countless trips to the physio. However, without the training support of “Stepback Fitness”, as well as the financial sponsorship from “The Bunch”, a Bristol-based household bills company, my marathon adventure would not have been possible.

Being selected to represent STC and contribute to its fundraising effort is a real honour and I hope I have made a meaningful contribution. Any donations towards my £2200 goal would be hugely appreciated.”