CHELMSFORD residents are pulling on their running shoes and training hard in preparation to tackle the London Marathon on Sunday.

The sporting heroes told the Weekly News why they are taking part and which charity they will be running for on the big day.

James Cater, 24, from Chelmsford, is running in aid of Havens Hospice.

He said: “I’m running for them as they areagood local cause and I want to support them.”

Donate at just giving.com/ James-Cater1

Alex Benson, 30, of Cormorant Walk, Chelmsford, is running for the British Heart Foundation and Grove Cottage.

He said: “I’d like to finish in under three hours.”

Donate at: uk.virginmoney giving.com/runalexbenson

Joanna Sullivan, 32, from Chelmsford, is running for the Anthony Nolan blood cancer charity.

She said: “I’m humbled knowing the money I’ve raised has made a difference.”

Donate at: virginmoney giving.com/Jo Sullivan2

Heidi Danckert, 28, of Old Moores, Chelmsford, is running in aid of Children with Cancer UK.

She said: “It’s a really important charity for people to support.”

Donate at: just giving.com/HeidiHoe

Ellie Beazeley, 19, of Chelmsford, is running for Children with Cancer UK.

She said: "I wanted to run for a cancer charity as there are people I know who have suffered from cancer. 

"I also want to be a teacher and love working with kids so this seemed like a deserving charity to run for!"