Two Dedicated Runners Taking On the London Marathon 2026 in Support of ALABARÉ
Two ALABARÉ supporters are set to lace up their trainers for one of the world’s most famous running challenges – the TCS London Marathon 2026.
Two ALABARÉ supporters are set to lace up their trainers for one of the world’s most famous running challenges – the TCS London Marathon 2026.
Funds raised by Richie Whitaker and Ellis Robinson will go towards the charity’s mission to provide homes, restore hearts and empower minds.
The pair have been training hard for the 26.2-mile course around the capital, each with their own reasons for wanting to complete the route while backing ALABARÉ.
‘I’m in giddy mode!’ – Richie’s story
Richie came into contact with ALABARÉ through his work as the Bakery Manager at Salisbury’s branch of GAIL’s.
The business kindly provided refreshments for participants at the BIG Sleep at Stonehenge last November, with Richie then sleeping out himself to learn more about the charity. He said:
Click HERE to support Richie's London Marathon fundraising“From the first moment I met the team and chatted about the charity, I knew it was such a brilliant cause, not just for getting people off the streets and giving them a place, but actually putting in that foundation to stop it happening in the future. At GAIL’s, we’re all about connecting with the community, so I thought it would be a great partnership to support a great charity.”
He’s been gathering support for his London Marathon 2026 effort from customers at the bakery, who’ve donated towards his page, as well as special fundraising events, including a teddy bear raffle.
Richie’s even been wearing his ALABARÉ running vest behind the GAIL’s counter to spark conversations about his support of the charity. Just ahead of the event, which takes place on Sunday (25 April), he said:
“I’m excited! I’ve spoken to so many people who’ve done it before about the actual event itself, and they’ve all told me about how brilliant the atmosphere is, so I’m in that kind of giddy mode at the moment with the training, tapering off now and eating more, so I’m just feeling that it’s really going to happen!”
Let’s Go, Ellis!
ALABARÉ’s second London Marathon 2026 runner is Ellis Robinson, who has seen first-hand the difference that the charity’s work makes to clients in helping towards a more positive and independent future.
Ellis has worked within ALABARÉ’s Homes for Veterans in South Wales, supporting former military personnel in their journey and breaking the cycle of homelessness.
He’s raised over £1,200 and explains his reasons for taking part:
“The London Marathon is an amazing opportunity to raise much-needed funds to continue the support available within ALABARÉ. The services enable people to start afresh and lay foundations for the next chapter of their lives.
“The reality is that homelessness can happen to anyone. It’s not just about losing a home; it often comes with deep personal struggles, such as mental health challenges, trauma, and isolation. ALABARÉ provides safe accommodation, practical support, and compassionate care to help people get back on their feet and move towards independence.”
At ALABARÉ, we need to raise a total of £1.7 million a year to maintain our services for people at risk of homelessness, including veterans, young people leaving care and young parents with their babies.
You can support Ellis directly by clicking the button below.
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