We want to take this opportunity to say a HUGE thank you to the marathon runners that chose to support Oxford Hospitals Charity yesterday.

There are thousands of amazing charities out there and you chose to support us, and that means the world.

The sun shone on our 23 amazing runners who took part alongside 40,000 others in the buzzing atmosphere that’s unique to the London marathon.

And so far our runners have collectively raised close to £30,000 for our hospital causes, which is just fantastic.

Here’s what some of our runners had to say about the day…

Sarah Harries, who ran in memory of her twin sister and raised over £1,500 for the Churchill Renal Fund said: “What an amazing experience it was. I ran my little heart out for my twin sister Tamara today.”

Emily Davies, who ran on behalf of the Silver Star Unit, said of her experience: “I was so pleased to have given back in a small way to the Silver Star team to say thank you for all the wonderful support they gave me during my 2 pregnancies.

“The day was incredible - there were so many well-wishers, the atmosphere was brilliant and I was delighted with myself for (just about) beating 5 hours! I really recommend taking on this challenge - I’ve enjoyed myself so much.”

Headteacher Christian McGuinness and Assistant Headteacher Anne Hipwell at Woodstock Primary School also took on the enormous challenge in aid of Oxford Hospitals Charity. Christian said: “Sunday’s London marathon was incredible. The training was long and tough, but the support of our families and school community in the lead up, and the overwhelming support and cheers from the crowds on the day carried us through. A truly magical experience.”

Paula Daly ran on behalf of I.M.P.S (Injury Minimization Programme for School), part of Oxford Hospitals Charity, said: “London has been a dream of mine for many years. Yesterday I felt so privileged and proud to run for a local charity that has done so much for my children and many, many hundreds more in Oxfordshire.

“Running is so therapeutic for me and there were many humbling scenes yesterday of people giving everything they had, just to cross that finish line.

It truly is a magical experience and the support from the crowds is unbelievable. Thank you for giving me the opportunity. The fundraising continues…”

Our fastest runner was staff member Sam Bird so a big congratulations to him! But this event really is all about the fundraising and the experience – so however fast or slow we are incredibly proud of you all – and so grateful for your fundraising efforts in support of all our hospital causes.

If you’ve been inspired by our amazing runners this year, the ballot for next year’s London Marathon is now open - and don’t forget it’s back to its regular slot of April next year! The ballot closes this Friday 7th October.

No doubt there will be some achy legs today, but from all of us at Oxford Hospitals Charity – Thank you