At nearly 70 years old, a woman is set to run the London Marathon, raising money for a North East forest school that is close to her heart.
On April 26, 2026, Anne Lloyd is taking on the London Marathon, fulfilling what she describes as a "lifelong ambition" to run one of the world's most prominent 26.2-mile races.
Entering her seventh decade in April, Anne is fundraising for Stomping Grounds forest school, a local charity that strives to bring communities and children together; "reconnecting them with nature" through various outdoor activities.
The outdoor learning school operates eight locations in the North East, including two in the Tyne Valley: Dukes Hagg Wood, Prudhoe and Haltwhistle Riverside Park.
"I am more of a 5km park-runner, but I like a challenge! Although a slow runner, I am determined and have started a strict training programme," said Anne.
"As a keen lover of nature, I believe Stomping Grounds is a great charity to support; the idea of bringing communities together, reconnecting them with nature, deserves funding.
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"These days, all of us need more opportunities for outdoor activities such as forest schools and holiday camps."
Anne has a strong and ongoing connection to the North East; her great niece has attended sessions at Stomping Grounds since she was one, and she also regularly visits family near Wylam, has spent time at Dukes Hagg and often takes in Prudhoe Parkrun.
"Stomping grounds are thrilled to have the support of someone as inspirational as Anne," said Stomping Grounds CEO Sophie Watkinson.
"We've enjoyed running the park run with her as part of her training, tasting her cakes, and chatting about what motivates her to take on and train for something as challenging as the London Marathon.
"A huge thanks to Anne and all of her family who have always been and continue to be advocates for the work we do!"
At the time of writing, on the road to her £2000 target, Anne has raised £1297. Find out more about Anne's fundraising endeavours and donate on her JustGiving page via: https://www.justgiving.com/page/anne-lloyd-2?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL&utm_campaign=020
