Run for donkeys in the world's biggest marathon

The Donkey Sanctuary is inviting people to become part of its intrepid team of runners in this year's London Marathon, which takes place on Sunday 3 October. 

With four participants already signed up, the international animal welfare charity has five places still available for the Virgin Money London Marathon, with another five places available in the Virtual Virgin Money London Marathon. 

Now in its second year, the virtual event will see 50,000 participants around the globe join the 50,000 runners on the streets of London in the world's biggest-ever marathon. 

Runners from as far afield as the United States will be part of the team supporting The Donkey Sanctuary at the London event, which starts in Greenwich and takes in some of the capital's most iconic landmarks before finishing on the Mall. 

Those who opt to take part in the virtual event will be able choose their own 26.2 mile route, and all finishers will be sent a 2021 Virgin Money London Marathon New Balance finisher's t-shirt and an official medal. 

All The Donkey Sanctuary runners will receive a branded running vest in Team Donkey Sanctuary colours and will be supported throughout their training in the lead up to the event in October. London participants are expected to raise a minimum of £2,000 in sponsorship for The Donkey Sanctuary, while those taking part in the virtual marathon are expected to raise a minimum of £250. 

Rose Huxham, Community Fundraising Officer at The Donkey Sanctuary, said: "With several runners already signed up, we hope others will join our amazing team of athletic fundraisers and take part in the London Marathon for us this year.  

"Their valuable support means so much. The money raised will allow us to be there for donkeys in greatest need, here in the UK and around the world." 

The Donkey Sanctuary is a global leader for equine welfare, research and veterinary care. The charity operates programmes worldwide for animals working in agriculture, industry and transportation. 

For more details on how to sign up to The Donkey Sanctuary's London Marathon team, please visit https://www.thedonkeysanctuary.org.uk/support-us/get-involved/get-active-for-donkeys.