CHILDREN'S TV favourites Sam and Mark have teamed up with a Feltham trio to take on this year’s London Marathon.
Dancing on Ice stars Sam Nixon and Mark Rhodes, regularly work with Feltham resident Sarah Hitching and convinced her and two friends to sign up for the race in support of disabled children’s charity Whizz Kidz.
Sarah, a publicity manager for ITV, said: “I’ve known Sam and Mark for a few years now and they’ve always been a joy to work with.
“During that time I’ve seen how much they do to help raise funds at charity events for Whizz Kidz between their work commitments and have witnessed the amazing work the charity does for disabled children and their families throughout the UK.
“We just could not turn down the opportunity to join their marathon team and do our bit to help as well.”
Sarah will take part in April’s London Marathon with her partner Chris Prydderch and close friend Rob Valintine.
Chris said: “None of us are natural runners, but this is a once in a lifetime opportunity and Sarah was able to persuade us quite easily.
“Not only are we starting to see the benefits of getting fitter but knowing that any money raised will go directly to disabled children most in need is fantastic.”
American Airlines employee, Rob Valintine added, “We are lucky to live in an area close to large parks – Bushy Park near Richmond has become our second home at the moment.”
Former Pop Idol favourites, Sam and Mark, are patrons of Whizz Kidz, which aims to improve the quality of life of disabled children and young people through the provision of customised mobility equipment.
Sam, who will be running alongside the trio, said: “We are all terrified of running that distance, 26.2miles is a long way. But we know it’s for such a good cause and that’s what we’ll be thinking of on the day and we will all certainly do our very best.”
To sponsor Sarah, Chris and Rob and support Whizz Kidz visit www.justgiving.com/SarahHitchingChrisPrydderchRobValintine or to donate by text, for example £5, send the message WHKZ88 £5 to 70070.
