A father and son are encouraging others to take up 2014 marathon places and raise funds for a good cause.

David and Billy Rayfield made last year’s London Marathon a family affair by running together for Farleigh Hospice as a thank you for caring for David’s mum Sheila Rayfield.


Mrs Rayfield, of Nelson Gardens, Braintree, died in 2012 on December 14 after a battle with cancer.

She and widower Len were both members of the Salvation Army and had been married for 53 years.

To honour her memory, the Rayfield family set themselves the target of raising £7,750 for Farleigh Hospice over the course of a year - a target which they have exceeded.

Tube driver David, 48, of Hertford, said: “My Mum was a remarkable lady who devoted her whole life to others.
“For me personally, I was able to vent most of my anger and frustration at losing her through pounding the streets and focusing on running the 26 miles non-stop.”

Farleigh Hospice is hoping the Rayfields’ story will inspire others to take part in the 2014 London Marathon.


For more information, visit farleighhospice.org or contact a member of the Fundraising Team on 01245 457408 or by email at events@farleighhospice.org.
The deadline for applications is January 31.