A MAN from Ellesmere Port, who has MND (Motor Neurone Disease), will be one of only 10 people entering the London Marathon as an 'assisted wheelchair participant'.
Christopher Thurston, 43, had always been a keen runner and often ran with his work colleagues and friends, Matthew Pritchard, 45, from New Brighton, and Lee Quinn, 46, from Allerton.
Speaking to the Globe, Christopher said: "Seven years ago me, Matt and Lee ran the Liverpool Marathon and we used to apply to do the London Marathon every year but never got in.
"In 2017 when I got diagnosed with MND I couldn't run anymore."
Matthew spoke about the effects the diagnosis has had on his close friend Christopher.
"It started from his foot upwards. He started slowly getting worse and it's just affected him massively," he said.
"He still comes to the office and he's just taken it right on the chin. He's a real trooper."
Introduction of assisted wheelchair users in London Marathon
In 2022, four wheelchair users who required assistance, from a team of up to four helpers, were allowed to participate in the event for the first time in its 41-year history.
This year, the number has risen to 10 so Christopher decided to apply for a space to take part and was successful.
He will be participating with Matthew, Lee, another work colleague Matthew Kerrigan, 41, from Oxton and his brother, Daniel Witton, 43, from Nottingham.
"I feel so lucky. This is a very recent thing and it's so exciting. It's a pleasure to be a part of it," Christopher said.
Matthew added: "It was all Chris' idea. We've all been stepping it up and following plans. We're all plodding away and we should be good on the day."
Earlier this week the team went down to Alberts Dock to test out a sporty wheelchair which has been lent to the group by Freedom for Kids Charity, based in Morpeth.
Christopher has decided to raise money for Darby Rimmer MND Foundation and Wirral MNDA as both charities have helped him throughout his MND journey.
To donate to the team's fundraising page, visit here.
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