THE playground at Arthur Bugler Primary School in Stanford-le-Hope has been transformed into a training ground of late, as a group of determined children prepare to take on the TCS Mini London Marathon on Saturday, 25 April 2026.

While the children have been busy lacing up their trainers and clocking up the steps, they have received an extra boost of motivation from some of the biggest names in British sport and broadcasting.

The "Lucky 20" students, who were selected via a school-wide ballot, are running to raise £5,000 for the school's PTA. The funds are earmarked for improving lunchtime provision and enhancing extracurricular activities, ensuring every child at Arthur Bugler benefits from the team's hard work.

The mission has caught the attention of several high-profile stars who have sent messages of encouragement to the young athletes!

Eilish McColgan: The Commonwealth Champion and 4x Olympian, known for her incredible grit on the track, has lent her support to the budding runners.

Adele Roberts: The "Marathon Queen", legendary broadcaster, and former BBC Radio 1 presenter, who holds a Guinness World Record for the fastest marathon with a stoma, has shared an inspiring message with the team.

Eddie 'The Eagle' Edwards: The ultimate British underdog and Olympic ski-jumping legend has rallied behind the children, embodying the spirit of "giving it your all."

Lucy Cordell, the teacher and event organiser who is leading the group past Buckingham Palace and down The Mall, said: "Seeing our children's faces when they realised these legends actually knew who they were and what a challenge they were taking on, was worth every single step of training.

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"It's phenomenal to have this kind of support. These messages have shown the children they're becoming local heroes inspiring everyone they meet".

You can show your support for these children and help them reach their £5,000 fundraising target by donating here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/x6xyfn-tcs-mini-london-marathon-2026