A huge well done to Dan and Connor – our first London Marathon charity runners!
Congratulations to Dan Jones and Connor Barker, who took on the 2026 TCS London Marathon for Derwen Charity. Their commitment, months of training and fantastic fundraising will help create even more opportunities for our students.
Following their inspiring achievement, we are now inviting runners to apply for two charity places in the 2027 TCS London Marathon on Sunday 25 April 2027. It’s a chance to take on the iconic 26.2-mile challenge, soak up the unforgettable atmosphere – and raise vital funds to support our students.
Apply for a Derwen Charity place (London Marathon 2027)
- Apply by: midnight on Sunday 10 May
- How to apply: make a £5 donation to Derwen Charity and complete the form at derwen.me/London2027
- Fundraising target: £2,000
- Support: fundraising is led by the runner, with support from the College’s fundraising and marketing team
- Successful runners announced: week commencing Monday 11 May
Why Dan and Connor ran
Connor ran in memory of his dad, who was due to run the London Marathon in 2015 but sadly died a couple of weeks before race day. He was also inspired by his younger sister Amy, who is a student at Derwen College.
Dan, Sports and Enrichment Coordinator at Derwen College, was motivated to improve his own health and wellbeing, set goals, raise awareness and be a positive role model for students.
Dan said: “What an experience – and what a challenge. A year ago I hadn’t run more than 10k, so building up to a marathon felt huge. Thank you to everyone who supported me, from my colleagues at College who helped with training, to everyone who sponsored me and came along to our charity quiz. I’d recommend it to anyone – there’s nothing like the atmosphere and the exhilaration on the day. And to have raised money for a cause that means so much to me really was the cherry on the cake. I’m hurting now, but it was worth it!”
Connor said: “My younger sister, Amy, attends Derwen College, which has helped her to grow into an independent young lady. With the help of all the wonderful staff and amenities, she is able to express her passions for life, build relationships, and have the most exciting experiences during her young adult life.
“Crossing that finish line was an amazing feeling and I couldn’t have done it without the incredible support around me. A massive thank you to my partner and family for attending and supporting me every step of the way. Making yourself heard in such an incredible atmosphere gave me the extra push when I needed it most! It meant the world to me having them there.
“To everyone who has donated and helped me prepare for this event – thank you! Your kindness has been overwhelming and has made every single mile worth it.
“The atmosphere in London was amazing from start to finish – what an experience!”
Bryony Wesson, Derwen Charity fundraiser, said: “A huge thank you to Dan and Connor for all their hard work – the training, the long runs in all weathers, and the incredible fundraising – they’ve been brilliant ambassadors for Derwen College. We can’t wait to welcome two new runners for 2027 and follow their journeys from the first training run right through to the finish line on marathon day.”
Ready to take on London Marathon 2027 for Derwen Charity? Apply at derwen.me/London2027 before midnight on Sunday 10 May.