A Worthing firefighter, whose daughter has Crohn’s disease, is planning to run the London Marathon for a charity close to his heart.

Matt Wainwright is preparing to take on the iconic 26.2‑mile route on April 26, raising funds for Crohn’s & Colitis UK.

He will run past some of London’s most well-known landmarks, from Greenwich to The Mall.

Matt said: “After ten years of applying for a place in the marathon, I am delighted to have finally been allocated a place this year.

Worthing firefighter Matt Wainwright, whose daughter has an incurable disease, is planning to run the London Marathon for a charity close to his heart. (Photo contributed)

placeholder image — Worthing firefighter Matt Wainwright, whose daughter has an incurable disease, is planning to run the London Marathon for a charity close to his heart. (Photo contributed)

“My chosen charity is Crohn’s & Colitis UK, which is very close to my heart, and the charity sets a fundraising target of £2,500. This amazing charity that has supported my family since 2014, when my eldest daughter Sophie was diagnosed with the disease.

“Sophie has suffered numerous unpleasant symptoms and undergone various treatments for a condition that currently has no cure. The money raised will help the charity fund research into better treatments, raise awareness, and continue supporting individuals and families living with the disease.”

To donate to Matt’s JustGiving page, visit: https://www.justgiving.com/page/matt-wainwright-1?utm_medium

Joining Matt Wainwright in running the London Marathon is West Sussex Fire & Rescue Services station manager Matt Smith. He will be raising funds for Cancer Research UK.

He is taking on the challenge in memory of his mum, who sadly passed away on Christmas Eve last year.

Matt said: “I was 12 years old when my mum was first diagnosed with breast cancer. From that moment on, the world shifted for us as a family and for everyone who loved her.

“Over the years my mum faced cancer on three separate occasions, and each time she fought it with everything she had. Unfortunately, in May 2025 we received the devastating news that the cancer had returned and spread.

“Despite the incredible care and compassion from nurses, doctors and specialists, there were no more medical miracles to hope for. Seven months later mum died at home on Christmas Eve, her favourite day of the year surrounded by the people who loved her most.

“Like tens of thousands of families affected by cancer each year, this is now part of our story – and it’s why I’ll be taking part in the 2026 London Marathon to raise money for Cancer Research UK.

“If you’re able to donate, no matter how big or small, it would mean the world. Every contribution helps fund research that brings us closer to better treatments and better outcomes for families affected by cancer.”

To donate, visit: https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/page/matts-giving-page-190753