Local auctioneer smashes fundraising targets for Parkinson’s UK and We Love Lichfield.
Richard Winterton has completed this year’s London Marathon, overcoming intense heat and physical exhaustion while raising thousands of pounds for charity.
Describing the race as “really tough” and “incredibly hot”, Richard pushed through to the finish line in one of the world’s most iconic endurance events. However, the effort took its toll shortly afterwards. Around 20 minutes after finishing, his blood sugar levels dropped, and he needed a short recovery period. Thankfully, he has since recovered and is now feeling OK.
Reflecting the following morning, he spoke candidly about the after-effects, joking that he felt “like I’ve been kicked by a horse” and was “waddling like a duck”.
In the lead-up to the marathon, Richard had been backed by an outpouring of support across social media, with messages celebrating both his determination and the causes he was running for.
One post shared ahead of race day read:
Richard, we’re wishing you the very best of luck for the London Marathon tomorrow! We’ll be cheering you on every step of the way, go smash it! Your incredible training has shown real determination, and we’re all so proud of you and your support for two fantastic causes.
Richard took on the challenge to raise funds for two organisations close to the community, and the response has been remarkable.
For Parkinson’s UK, he has raised an outstanding £5,500, smashing his £2,000 target with the backing of 134 supporters.
Alongside this, he has raised £1,320 for We Love Lichfield via The Community Foundation for Staffordshire, reaching 66% of his £2,000 target with support from 30 donors.
With more donations to count, the final funds raised are looking nearer £8,000.
Richard had previously appeared on a Lichfield Radio podcast ahead of the race, where he spoke about his motivation and the preparation behind the challenge. Following his marathon effort, he is now set to return for a follow-up episode to reflect on the experience and thank those who supported him.
“I’d love to come in and say thank you properly for all your support and the donation,” he said.
His achievement stands as a testament not only to personal resilience, but to the strength of community spirit, with local people rallying behind him every step of the way.
Well done Richard!