Camp Simcha’s four marathon runners have raised nearly £13,000 so far for the charity’s work supporting families who have a seriously ill child.

Brian Gordon, Joe Metliss, Danny Myers and Jonny Phillips finished in times ranging from 3 hours 43 minutes to 4 hours 15 minutes.

Jonny Phillips, who was running his ninth marathon for the charity completed it in 3hrs 56 minutes. He said: “Out of nine marathons for Camp Simcha, this was the one with the best atmosphere. The crowds were phenomenal. It was a beautiful day and all the more meaningful running for my favourite charity.”

Running his first ever marathon, Danny Myers was raising funds for Camp Simcha’s Evie Night Owls overnight respite project, established in memory of Evie Bladon, who would have turned ten this year.

Danny who has already run three half-marathons for the charity, finished in 3 hours 53 minutes. He said: “We are friends with Evie’s parents Sam and Lee, who established the project with Camp Simcha. I have heard first-hand from them the difference that overnight respite made when they were caring for Evie, so running the marathon with that important cause in mind really meant a lot and was definitely a driver to keep going.

“It was a fantastic day, running through London and seeing so many iconic sites along the way. The cheering and support from all the spectators and volunteers continually gave an extra injection of energy to get around the course.”

Joe Metliss, who finished in 3 hours 43 minutes, described his first marathon experience as ‘incredible’.

“It was really tough at times but I’m so proud of myself for finishing and I can now say I’ve completed the London Marathon! Thank you to all the donors, family and friends and the Camp Simcha team who spurred me on to get over the line and we have collectively raised an enormous amount for such a worthy cause.”

Brian Gordon, who was running his sixth marathon, completed the course in 4 hours 15 minutes. He launched his sponsorship page during the Jubilee by growing a beard and painting it red, white and blue.

Having last run a marathon in 2017, Brian said he had found this one comparatively tough but was buoyed up by the amazing energy of the spectators.

“With the bands playing as you went along, kids high-fiving you, amazing support from the crowds all the way through, it’s just the best experience. I have already signed up for next year!

“It was great to be fundraising for such an amazing charity as Camp Simcha, that people were happy to support. I am particularly grateful to Grove Residential for their sponsorship and support.”