Doncaster runner to tackle virtual London Marathon for town's coronavirus victims

Jade Ackerman will take on the virtual London Marathon next month – running 26 miles on a route around Doncaster after the annual event in the capital was axed because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

And she will take on the gruelling challenge in aid of Doncaster and Bassetlaw Hospitals NHS Trust which is raising cash for a permanent memorial garden for Doncaster’s 250 plus coronavirus victims.

She said: “2020 has been a strange year for us all - lockdowns, working and schooling from home.

"However, I took the opportunity and time to start running again and to most importantly enjoy it.

"My aim is to raise money to help develop the memorial Rainbow Gardens at Doncaster Royal Infirmary and Bassetlaw Hospital in memory of all the local people who have sadly lost their life to Covid-19.”

Jade has already run two half marathons and the run on October 4 will be her first ever full marathon.

She added: “The gardens will be created in their honour and will be dedicated spaces for families and colleagues to visit, a calm and peaceful place, to remember those loved ones we have lost. We may not be able to bring loved ones back, but by helping and providing these gardens this will give those that need it, time and space to remember those that they have lost.”You can donate HERE