THE principal of The Hammond School in Chester was supported by more than 40 students and staff as she completed this year's 'virtual' London Marathon on Sunday (October 4).

Jennifer Roscoe has so far raised more than £3,500 for two charities close to the school's heart – CLIC Sargent and Nightingale House Hospice.

She had been due to run the London Marathon back in April but it was cancelled because of the coronavirus outbreak.

Organisers of the world-famous event made sure runners still had the chance to take part by completing the 26.2-mile distance from home or anywhere in the world on the course of their choice.

Miss Roscoe, who ran around Chester, completed the first 17 miles on her own, with students and staff joining her at intervals to complete 10-mile, five-mile and three-mile runs.

The Hammond School in Chester is a leading provider of performing arts education and is the oldest vocational dance school in the UK.

Following Sunday’s event, Miss Roscoe said: "I am so proud of the way Hammond students and staff have responded to calls to help others who are in need.

"Both CLIC Sargent and Nightingale House Hospice are very dear to us, and our young people have helped both charities continue to provide care and support.

"The spirit of the London Marathon was seen in all students and staff on Sunday, and together we have raised more than £3,000."

  • To donate to CLIC Sargent – a children's cancer charity that Miss Roscoe has supported for a long time – click here.
  • Miss Roscoe was running to support Nightingale House Hospice in memory of a "beloved teacher and colleague" Miss Chrissie Eccleston-Tuohy. To donate to the charity click here .