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Charlie's fundraiser for Starlight UK

Charlie Mellor is raising money for Starlight UK

London Marathon 2026 · 26 April 2026 · Start fundraising for this event

Starlight is the UK’s leading charity for children’s play in hospitals and hospices. We work to ensure every child can experience the power of play, supporting their mental and physical health during treatment and recovery from illness.

Story

In 2026 I am taking on the London Marathon in support of Starlight.

Running is something I do to push myself, both physically and mentally. For me, it’s not about racing others, it’s about challenging myself to go further, to grow stronger, and to prove that with consistency and determination, the things that once felt impossible become possible.

A huge part of my motivation comes from my daughter Isla. I want her to see that hard things are worth doing, that when you put in the work, when you keep showing up, you can achieve something you never thought you could. Running the marathon is my way of living that lesson, so one day she’ll know that challenges can be overcome with resilience and courage.

I’m also running for a cause that means a great deal to me: Starlight UK. I was proud to run for them in the 2024 London Marathon, and I’m honoured to do so again in 2026. Starlight are the UK’s leading charity for children’s play in hospitals and hospices, making sure every child has the chance to experience the joy, comfort and escape that play brings, even in the toughest circumstances.

As a parent, I see every day how important play is for my daughter’s happiness, growth, and imagination. She’s lucky to have a wonderful support system and endless opportunities to play, but I know not every child has that. For those in hospital, facing uncertainty or difficult treatments, Starlight steps in to bring that light back into their world.

That’s why I’m lacing up my trainers and taking on 26.2 miles again. Every step I take will be for the children Starlight supports, and with your help, we can make sure more young people get the chance to laugh, play and just be children, no matter what they’re going through.

Thank you so much for your support. It truly means the world.

Donation summary

Total
£3,796.05
+ £137.50 Gift Aid
Online
£3,796.05
Offline
£0.00

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