#sundayrunday – Meet Roy, one of our Virgin Money London Marathon Runners

Name: Roy Traynor

Age: 53

From: Howden

Can you tell us a little about why you have chosen to run the London Marathon for The Sick Children’s Trust?

I am running the London Marathon in memory of my Great Niece Daisy Fraser who we sadly lost in June 2004 aged just 10 months old. During Daisy's short life, my niece, Lucy Fraser & her Husband Scott, Daisy's parents, were supported tremendously by numerous charities at both hospitals. One in particular and is especially close to their hearts is The Sick Children's Trust’s Treetop House at Sheffield Children's Hospital. Being so far from home, The Sick Children's Trust provided Lucy, Scott & Scott's Daughters, Mollie & Anna with free home from home accommodation for 7 months, allowing them to be as close as possible to Daisy on a daily basis. It not only gave them some 'normality', but a place where they could spend time together as s family, in a homely environment, away from a hospital ward.

When did you start running?

I started running around 1996 after a having to stop playing rugby due to an injury. I was a member of Ellesmere Port Running Club for 20 years, but with recently relocating to Howden I joined Goole Viking Striders, it’s a way of staying fit and socialising.

What made you decide to do the London Marathon run?

I ran the London Marathon 2 years ago but when I finished inside I felt something was missing. I was fortunate to get a ballot place this year that’s when I approached Lucy about running for a charity which has helped our family in the past.

How much are you hoping to raise?

I haven't put a target on fund raising, but obviously the more the better. My employer Drax Power Ltd has kindly agreed to match pound for pound what I raise and The Tailors Chalk Micro Pub in Howden is also holding fund raising nights and pushing my sponsor form.

If anybody wanted to take on a marathon I would embrace the event, enjoy the training and not to worry if a day of training is missed.

What would you say to someone else who hopes to do a marathon in the near future?

If anybody wanted to take on a marathon I would embrace the event, enjoy the training and not to worry if a day of training is missed.

Good luck Roy!