Tim Farron’s London Marathon effort raises over £6,000 for Growing Well

Westmorland and Lonsdale MP Tim Farron has raised more than £6,300 for Cumbrian mental health charity Growing Well, after completing yesterday’s London Marathon.

For the past 20 years the charity, which has sites at Tebay Services, Egremont, and Sizergh near Kendal, has supported people's mental health by getting them gardening and growing vegetables.

Tim finished the marathon in a time of 4 hours and 41 minutes.

Tim said: “This is the fourth time I’ve run a marathon, and this was by far the most challenging one I’ve done because of how hot it was.

“With a few miles to go I was struggling but then I ran past a homemade sign in the crowd which read ‘remember who you’re running for’.

“At that moment I thought about the incredible work that Growing Well do and said to myself ‘no way am I giving up here’. 

“I am massively grateful to everyone who sponsored me – the money donated will make a huge difference to the lives of people who are struggling with their mental health in Cumbria.”

Mary Smith, CEO of Growing Well said: “We can’t thank Tim enough for his dedication to vital local services like Growing Well, and for championing us on a national stage. 

“Our trustees, staff, volunteers and beneficiaries have followed his training and the big day itself with pride and gratitude. 

“We are totally bowled over with the huge sum of money raised to support our work, as a result. Thank you, Tim!”