Wiltshire runner to take on London Marathon for FearFree charity

A world record holder from Wiltshire is preparing to run the London Marathon 2026 for a local domestic abuse charity.

Gary MacAlister will be raising money for FearFree, a charity that supports people fleeing abuse and rebuilding their lives.

Gary, who last year set a world record at the Bristol Half Marathon, for the fastest half marathon dressed as a 3-dimensional aircraft, shared how he came to support FearFree.

"I was approached by the mayor of Melksham and their team, who select two local charities each year," he said.

"One of their chosen charities this year is Fear Free, and they offered me one of their spaces to run the marathon. Now here I am, fundraising for this fantastic cause, and I’m very excited to represent them."

The upcoming race will mark Gary's return to the London Marathon after 16 years. "I’ve been trying to apply since I last ran in 2010 and kept getting the dreaded rejection message. This opportunity felt like a second chance, and I jumped at it."

Promoting the message of FearFree

In preparation for the marathon, Gary has been using local parkruns around Wiltshire to raise awareness about the charity. He’ll be carrying a green flag to highlight FearFree’s mission to promote healthy relationships.

"The green flag represents ‘green flags’ in relationships, which FearFree encourages everyone to look out for," he said. "It’s a great way to get people talking. The flag also includes a QR code that links to the sponsor page, making it easy for people to learn about the charity and support my efforts."

Supporting FearFree

Funds raised from Gary's marathon effort will directly benefit Fear Free’s work in helping survivors of abuse and violence to rebuild their lives.

He said: "Exposure is a big part of what I want to achieve. Fear Free has been around for a long time, but it’s not always the first charity people think of locally. Supporting them will bring attention to their essential work and help make a real difference to people in the community."

FearFree CEO, Debbie Beadle, told us it's a significant moment for the organisation.

She said: "We're really excited because this is the first time that FearFree is having a charity space at London Marathon. It's such a big event that draws a lot of attention, is super positive.

"We thank Gary for running for us and raising vital funds. Obviously this is really significant for us because it supports the work that we do to help people who are affected by domestic abuse, sexual violence and stalking.

"And as it's such an event, it obviously is a great opportunity to make more people aware of our services and how they can get involved. Best of luck Gary!"

Getting involved

There are plenty of ways to support Gary's marathon efforts. Sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses wishing to have their name displayed on his running vest during the London Marathon.

"Any company looking for exposure in front of hundreds of thousands of people along the streets of London, now’s your chance," he said.

Additionally, fans and supporters can make donations via Gary's fundraising page or FearFree’s social media platforms.

"No matter how big or small, every donation is hugely appreciated and goes toward the fantastic work FearFree does."

For more about how to support Fear Free and learn about fundraising efforts, and how they support survivors of abuse, we can visit their website.

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