George Olden, 32, from a long-established Romsey family, as well as a long line of Georges, will run the marathon in April for Samaritans.
The runner has had friends and family need help from Samaritans – a charity dedicated to reducing feelings of isolation and disconnection that can lead to suicide.
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MP Caroline Nokes and George Olden, 32, from Romsey (Image: Charles Elliman) George said: “I got into running during lockdown, like many people and, during the past year, ramped that up and started to do more.
“Simultaneously, during the lockdown, people started suffering more. Close loved ones, like everyone, were dealing with mental health challenges.”
George continued: “I think, for me, it’s a charity [Samaritans] that hits very close to home.”
In the UK, suicide is the biggest cause of death in men under 50, with men accounting for approximately three-quarters of deaths by suicide.
George has never run a marathon before – let alone one of the most famous. He said: “Why not start with the best in the world?”
The runner was joined by his partner, Tara-Lynn Young, 30, from Romsey. George said she has helped to educate him on mental health.
Tara-Lynn said: “There are so many local charities out there that are offering low-cost mental health support.”
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Romsey and Southampton North MP Caroline Nokes joined George to promote his fundraising activities and for a run around the town.
The MP, who was concerned by the stride of the six foot eight inch Romsey runner, said Sebastian Coe told her: “Anyone can run any distance – you just have to do it slowly enough.”
She added: “I bumped into George and I think Samaritans is a great charity. Through my work, I encounter people who struggle with mental health – it’s still something we don’t talk enough about.”
Asked about the power of running, the MP said: “It doesn’t matter how good or bad you are, it’s about getting out and taking in the fresh air.”
To support George, go to https://2025tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/george-olden