Hi, I'm Ash...

and this year I will be taking the crazy task of running the London Marathon in aid of The London Irish Centre 🍀

Running the London Marathon this year feels incredibly special. The London Irish Centre is a charity that is very close to my heart as it celebrates, supports and connects the Irish community in London. Being Irish is a huge part of who I am - my whole family is Irish, and I've grown up surrounded by the traditions, values and sense of community that comes with that, not to mention the countless rugby games i've been taken to dressed in green from head to toe 💚! I've always felt such a strong connection to my background, and running for the LIC is a way to give back to a community that celebrates and supports Irish culture and connection in London.

The LIC does such important work supporting Irish people of all ages, by promoting health and wellbeing, tackling loneliness, championing the Irish community in the arts, and keeping Irish culture alive in London, just to name a few.

I also wanted to set myself a big personal challenge this year, and as someone who has come to love running, the marathon felt like the perfect goal - not to mention how iconic the London Marathon is! Taking on 26.2 miles for a cause close to my heart gives the whole training process real meaning and purpose, and I'd be so incredibly grateful for any support along the way x 💚

A little more about the LIC...

The London Irish Centre’s mission is to empower and enrich lives through Irish Community and Culture. We are the Irish heart of London and offer services to everyone in need across London. The London Irish Centre was established in the 1950s to provide accommodation and support to newly arrived Irish migrants. Our services have evolved over the years according to need and are broad and holistic.

We are the largest Irish community charity in Britain and the first place that Irish people in London turn to for support. We provide well-developed and high-quality community services, such as our Befriending Service addressing loneliness and isolation or our Advice & Support service addressing homelessness and mental health issues, to very vulnerable clients, alongside a strong cultural and heritage offer which keeps people connected and addresses loneliness and isolation.