I’m fundraising for The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
Hi everyone,
In 2026, I'm taking on a massive challenge for an incredible cause: running the TCS London Marathon in support of The Duke of Edinburgh's Award (DofE)!
It's a big year for me—I'm celebrating my 50th birthday—and what better way to mark this milestone than by pushing my limits to raise money for a charity that helps young people feel limitless?
Why the DofE?
The DofE is an inspirational charity that empowers young people from all backgrounds to develop essential life skills, confidence, and resilience. It's not just about expeditions; it's about giving young people the chance to:
- Discover their passions through volunteering, skills, and physical activities.
- Develop teamwork and leadership on challenging expeditions.
- Build confidence to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.
Every young person deserves the opportunity to participate in the DofE, regardless of their circumstances. The funds I raise will help cover the costs of running the programme, ensuring that more young people - especially those facing barriers - can take part and benefit from this life-changing experience.
My Challenge
The London Marathon is one of the world's most iconic races, and running 26.2 miles at 50 is certainly going to be a challenge! I'm dedicating myself to a rigorous training plan to cross that finish line. It's going to take grit, determination, and a lot of early mornings, but the thought of supporting the DofE will fuel every single step.
My Goal is to raise £2,000!
How You Can Help
Your support, no matter the size, will make a direct difference in a young person's life by helping them start or complete their DofE journey.
Please consider donating today. Your generosity will be my greatest motivation on race day and will help an inspirational charity unlock the potential in tomorrow's leaders.
Thank you for helping me make my 50th year and this marathon run truly meaningful!
Thank you to my Sponsors
£150
Mum
£106
Mark And Miranda Bentinck
Great charity, James. Have a good run
£103.60
Jeff Gyles
GO James GO
£103.60
Margaret Gyles
You can do it! Good Luck!
£100
Sam Bennie
So proud of you - you’ve got this! Looking forward to celebrating with you at the end!
£75
Salter Court
Good luck James, from all at Salter Court!
£52
Matt & Mel
Good luck Mr Bennie, we know you’ll smash it!
£42.79
David Huckfield
Good luck James. David & Sue Huckfield
£32.76
Kathy Church Leat
£31.24
Rachael Faulkner
Good Luck James-amazing effort !
£27.05
Chris Page
Good luck James!
£27.05
Michael Eke
Good luck in your endeavours.
£27.05
Neil Stewart
Enjoy the run, James
£26
Mary & Julian
Good luck James!
£22
Matthew Bennie
Your son here, hope you do well and I’m sure you’ll reach your goal. X
£20
Mr & Mrs Williamson
Good luck James!
£20
Mr & Mrs Walker
Good luck James!
£20
Mrs Nelson
Go for it James!
£11.33
David Mcculloch
Good Luck
£11.33
Susan Burr
Great thing to do. Go for it!




Good luck for all the training and for such a good cause!