A Welwyn Garden City philanthropist is set to run the London Marathon to raise money for Cancer Research UK, after his sister in law was diagnosed with breast cancer last year. 

Craig Attfield picked up running with his friends around seven years ago, and will be accompanied and supported by his running buddy Steve Cross at the marathon.

Steve and Craig met while they both worked at John Lewis.

Since then, the two have been inseparable and decided to join forces to raise money for the cause.

Craig said: "Cancer is happening right now, which is why I’m raising money for Cancer Research UK and running the London Marathon. There’s no time to lose!"

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This is not Craig's first fundraising effort, as he had previously run the virtual London Marathon during COVID.

He ran the virtual race to raise funds for the Alzheimer's Society, after his father sadly passed away from the illness.

He has also previously run to raise awareness and funds for Cats Protection Welwyn Hatfield, a group both Craig and his wife volunteer for.

                                                                                                         

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Wife Claire said: "I am really proud. He's no spring chicken. He's 48, and he had an operation on his knee a few years ago, but still managed to do the virtual marathon six months later, so I'm really proud."

Craig added: “Please donate anything you can to my page. 

“It all helps find ways to bring forward the day when all cancers are cured.

"We have all been affected in some way by someone that has been through cancer treatment - it could be a family member or friend. I certainly have.  

"This is a huge challenge that I am looking forward to it and with your support I can raise money for a great cause."

Cancer Research UK claims: "Consistent progress is being made but improvements to technology and ground-breaking work offer new opportunities to find different ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer and improve survival rates even further.

"Help Cancer Research UK improve results even faster."

To donate to Craig's Cancer Research fund, go to fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/page/craiga-london-marathon