A RUNNER from Wells will be taking part in next year’s London Marathon after being accepted to run on behalf of a charity – having tried unsuccessfully 12 times to gain a place in the marathon through the public ballot.
Emma Woodcock, a member of Wells City Harriers, was allocated the only place available to run on behalf of the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society (NRAS) from more than 30 people who applied to the charity.
It is a very personal cause for Emma as her mother, Patricia Rix, had rheumatoid arthritis and died earlier this year at the age of 64.
“The charity told me on the phone that I had got a place in the marathon and I cried,” said Emma.
“I was happy that I got a place, and sad that I had to wait until my mum died.”
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease which causes pain, swelling and stiffness in the joints.
It can also inflame the organs, and Emma said it led to her mum getting heart disease, COPD, diabetes, lupus and pulmonary fibrosis.
The NRAS provides information and support services for those affected by rheumatoid arthritis and their families and friends.
“I want to raise as much money as I can for this worthy charity and make my mum proud,” said Emma. “This is something close to my heart.”
The 2026 London Marathon will take place on Sunday, April 26.
Emma is already a regular runner, and took part in the 10k at the Wells Festival of Running on May 25.
She has raised more than £800 for the NRAS so far through her JustGiving page. More donations can be made at: justgiving.com/page/emma-woodcock-2?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL&utm_campaign=015
She is also organising Bingo nights as another fundraiser that take place on the first Sunday of the month at Sadlers Wine Bar & Lounge, the restaurant in Heritage Courtyard that she runs with her husband Jason.
The sessions are named Leopard Print Bingo as Emma’s mum loved leopard print and she loved Bingo. The next one will take place on July 6, eyes down 6pm.
The first event, in June, raised more than £500.
Emma is looking for donations for prizes. If anyone would like to donate, contact her on 07940 261124. To book a place at any of the Bingo nights, email booking@sadlerswinebar.com