A pharmacist is running the London Marathon next month to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Society, in honour of his grandmother. 

Advanced pharmacist James Honey said it was “heartbreaking” to see his ‘Mama’ Rose decline over the last eight years of her life, and it took a “huge toll on myself and my family”. 

Read more: Mountain climb raises £2.6k for pharmacy technician 

He was planning to run the Manchester Marathon after he thought he had missed on getting a place for London, but was then “surprised” to be offered a London place a few weeks ago. He said he is now “ramping up the fundraising, and planning a few activities at work to try and boost funds.” 

So far he’s raised £1,879, in touching distance of his £2,000 target. Honey’s JustGiving fundraising can be found here. He’s been training several times a week with friends and wants to beat his marathon personal best of three hours and 30 minutes. 

Read more: ‘I almost died’: Pharmacist with rare condition to run London Marathon 

“While I love sports, I had always hated running but with no gym to go to during lockdown, the only thing I could do was run and although I didn’t like it at first, I soon began to enjoy the lovely weather and being outdoors. 

“I just want to enjoy the experience. I usually run with headphones in, but I intend to be in the moment and soak up the atmosphere.” 

Read more: £16k raised for cancer charity by NI pharmacy 

It comes as five friends climbed Mount Snowdon and raised £2.6k for their pharmacy technician friend to raise awareness of a rare cancer she has.

And a pharmacist is raising money for Gaza during Ramadan with a 450km bike challenge.