This April, Richard Rule,57, is running his 3^rd London Marathon. We are delighted that he has chosen to fundraise for BDCA to support our work in helping people in need across Newham. We catch up with him for a short interview. 

1. Can you tell us why you’ve chosen Bonny Downs as your charity for the London Marathon? 

I first heard about Bonny Downs when my partner joined the board of trustees in 2021. I have seen first-hand the amazing work that they do with the local community. Today the cost-of-living crisis means that even more people need their help. I hope that this fundraiser will enable BDCA to continue supporting those in need. 

2. What made you sign up for the London Marathon? 

Running is a passion of mine, and the London Marathon is the blue ribbon event.  I was fortunate to get a place in the public ballot for the London Marathon in 2020.  Unfortunately, with the world going into lockdown the race did not happen. Fast forward 3 years and training is in full swing to compete in the 2023 event. 

3. Have you run marathons before?  

This will be my 6^th Marathon and my 3^rd London Marathon. There is nothing quite like the feeling of running through the streets of London with the crowds cheering you on.  

4. How is your training going? What motivates you?   

I started training just after Christmas and have been building up the distance each week.  It has often been cold or wet or dark.  And sometimes all three! But the training is going well and I am on track.  

5. Where is your favourite place to run?  

Epping Forest…. or anywhere off road, muddy and hilly. 

6. Where would you like to run that you haven’t? 

I would love to enter one of the other famous marathons: Tokyo, New York or Boston. 

7. What kinds of things do you think about as you run?  

I am not one for listening to music, preferring to enjoy my surroundings, particularly when running off-road through the forest  

8. What other activities do you enjoy apart from running?  

I managed to combine running with 3 of my other favourite activities, swimming and cycling and travelling, when I completed my first half Iron Man in Portugal last year. I also love Lego! 

9. Do you have tips for people beginning to run? 

For those who may be uncertain as to how to start to run there is no better place to start than your local parkrun. These weekly runs welcome all, whether you are an experienced runner or a novice. In fact, parkrun has introduced park walkers, to emphasise that the event is for all, whether you want to run or walk! What is important is taking that first step. 

Thank you to Richard for sharing his insights and for fundraising for BDCA!  If you would like to support Richard and help our neighbours struggling in Newham, please donate here

Every contribution makes a vital difference. Your donation – no gift is too small. Your social media shares. Your support could be a lifeline for a struggling family right now. 

We also know that times are tough for many people, so please only give what you can afford. And if you are not in a position to give, we completely understand – you can always help by sharing our campaign link instead with your family, friends and social media.  

More information 

Bonny Downs Community Association launched in 1998, serving East Ham and the surrounding areas of Newham, which has the highest number of children living in poverty of any London borough and the highest rate of homelessness in the country. The funds we receive will be used to meet the costs of running our regular services for people in need in Newham. You can read more about our projects on our website.