TODAY'S the day (Saturday, 25 April) for 20 youngsters from Arthur Bugler Primary School in Stanford-le-Hope as they will take their places in the TCS Mini London Marathon!

Along the way, they've had so much support from the local community, including a generous donation from DP World.

This week, the children were buzzing to meet Kelly and Keira from DP World to celebrate a partnership that has officially powered their Marathon Mission. DP World has gone above and beyond to make sure the team hit the pavement in the best way possible.

Their generous funding has kitted the team out with everything from, the epic mission flag (printed by Running Imp), to the official team t-shirts (printed by local company Creative Treasure Den), and not forgetting the powerful speaker that will pump them around the track!

DP World also made sure no runner goes thirsty, donating water bottles to every single participant taking part.

Lucy Cordell, the teacher at Arthur Bugler Primary responsible for this opportunity said: "We have all been completely blown away by the phenomenal support from the local community.

"It's remarkable what can be achieved when a community joins together. No doubt, DP World's generous sponsorship has made sure our children feel like pros. If people can't see us, then they definitely will hear us! We're ready to cross that finish line in epic style, and make everyone that has supported us proud!"

Yesterday youngsters and staff from the school were featured on BBC Radio Essex, talking about their big London day out.

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The children are also currently racing towards their fundraising target of £5,000 which they intend to donate to the school's PTA to ensure further opportunities and experiences for all children in school. Residents are invited to show support and donate here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/x6xyfn-tcs-mini-london-marathon-2026

You can watch the TCS Mini London Marathon on BBC iPlayer from 8.30am until 4pm. Arthur Bugler Primary will kick-off at 1.40pm! Keep an eye out for them!