A WINCHESTER man is raising money for the Sailors' Society by tackling the London Marathon.
George Belcher, of Minden Way, Stanmore, is part of a team of eight people running for the charity on April 21.
This will be his third time at the event to raise funds for the Sailors' Society which supports people who work at sea.
George, 32, said: “Last year I also ran the London Marathon for my second time an achieved a personal best which I wasn't expecting, and this year I've taken on more of a real challenge. I'm taking part in The ABP Southampton Marathon on April 7, then I'm taking part in the Reading Half Marathon on April 14 before running the London Marathon on April 21.
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“There are many reasons why I'm taking part and still showing appreciation to the marine industry and my now former seafaring colleagues. I enjoyed my time of five years working as a qualified engineer officer working with various different nationalities onboard and gained respect from my colleagues.
“I recently moved to Winchester to find a shore-based role having effectively been forced out due to having Fetal Valproate Syndrome and Aspergers Syndrome, two neurodiverse conditions which affected my social interaction with certain colleagues.
“But I spoke up at a Workers Union meeting in October and raised awareness of Neurodivergent Seafarers needing certain levels of support and a change in the industry would be required.”
By Tuesday, April 2 George had raised £215 for the charity. He has set a target of £500.
To donate, visit 2024tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/george-belcher.
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