Branston man raises over £4,000 for charity in marathon run

16 April 2008

Ian Wait, who manages the Branston site at Seavington St Michael, completed the London Marathon in four hours and twenty minutes, coming in 16,934th. Ian was aiming to raise £2,000 for the British Heart Foundation but the generosity of colleagues, friends and sponsors has more than doubled that target.

Ian chose to fundraise for the BHF after his baby daughter, Niamh, underwent open heart surgery to rectify a congenital heart defect. His dad and father-in-law have also suffered heart attacks. Ian's dad and brother were waiting for him at the finish line, while his wife and friends were cheering him on at the 24 mile mark.

"It was an amazing day, there was a real carnival atmosphere and the cheering of the crowds really encouraged me," commented Ian. "It was great having so much support from my friends and family, who really got behind me in the last stretch when I needed it the most. And although being overtaken by a womble is something that I'll never forget, the view from Millenium Bridge as I crossed the river Thames was really awe inspiring."

Despite suffering from various aches and pains and an injured left knee, Ian says he'd still consider running the Marathon again. "I was taken aback by the amount of money I was able to raise for the British Heart Foundation. They do some amazing work and it's great to be able to give something back to such a worthwhile cause. I'd definitely consider running the London Marathon again, it was an amazing day and the money I'm raising will help tackle a really serious disease. I'd like to thank my friends and family and all the people who have sponsored me."    

To find out more about Ian's run or add to the total raised please visit www.justgiving.com/ianwait.