A local businesswoman will take to the streets of Chester to run this year’s ‘Virtual London Marathon’ in an effort to raise vital funds for a Wirral charity.

Helen Johnson, Business Development Manager at Chester-based legal firm Aaron & Partners, will be running 26.2 miles along with thousands of others across the UK on Sunday October 4, with the route planned to finish at Aaron & Partners city centre offices.

Helen, who is a keen runner, had this year signed up to run both the London and New York Marathon to celebrate a milestone birthday whilst helping raise money for Claire House, who support seriously and terminally ill children and their families.

Now, Helen will be taking part in London’s first virtual marathon, which has been taken online to encourage much-needed fundraising for charities across the UK, whilst ensuring participants can safely social distance.

Wirral Globe: Claire House Children's Hospice, WirralClaire House Children's Hospice, Wirral

Helen said: “This year I’m celebrating a big birthday, so I had planned a host of fundraising challenges, including running both the London and New York Marathons, but due to COVID-19 I had to put all of these plans on hold.

“So, when I heard that the London Marathon was hosting the event virtually, I decided to put my training to good use and take the opportunity to raise as much money as possible for an incredible local charity."

Helen has been carrying out her perperations with her dog Peggy as a training partner. The Patterdale Terrier Cross, will also be completing the virtual marathon with Helen and helping to raise money for Claire House Hospice, which Aaron & Partners had chosen as its charity of the year.

Helen added: “Claire House Hospice does such amazing work supporting families across the North West and at Aaron & Partners we have chosen to support them for a number of years.

Wirral Globe:

“With many fundraising events cancelled this year due to COVID-19, charities have been hugely impacted which is why I felt it was so important to go ahead with the marathon, albeit virtually.

“Having worked in Chester for a number of years, it only felt right to finish the marathon at Aaron & Partners’ offices, which are located in the heart of the city centre. I’m incredibly grateful for all the donations I’ve received so far and I’m really looking forward to taking on this challenge.”

To sponsor Helen in her fundraising challenge, click here.