A former soldier from Four Marks is going to run the London Marathon in a First World War uniform while waving a giant Royal British Legion flag.

Séadhna Wilson hopes to raise at least £2,000 for the Royal British Legion, a charity close to his heart.

Séadhna Wilson and his wife Trina with their daughter Zoe, now aged 15, shortly after his return from Afghanistan in 2009.
Séadhna Wilson and his wife Trina with their daughter Zoe, now aged 15, shortly after his return from Afghanistan (Séadhna Wilson)

He said: “I was in the Army for about eight years and left in 2011. I’ve always been into running so I’m putting the two together.

“Running is quite a selfish kind of sport so I really wanted to give something back to the military community.

“For people who needed help, or didn’t come home, the Royal British Legion always played a big role in supporting them, so it’s a really good way of connecting with the community, giving something back and combining it with my passion for running.”

The London Marathon is on a potentially warm April 27 but Séadhna explained that he was not thinking about comfort when he decided to run in gear designed for the trenches.

He said: “The uniform will stand out in a really busy London Marathon. Hopefully people will see the flag as it will stand out on television, and people will see something familiar. And the Royal British Legion was founded in the First World War.”

London will be the seventh marathon for 45-year-old Séadhna, who also does triathlons.

He said: “I’m looking forward to the atmosphere. I’m not looking forward to running in a hot, sweaty uniform, but the atmosphere is what it’s all about.

“People come out to cheer you on and it just bowls you along. Also there will be a Royal British Legion team, so we can share stories and connect. But basically it’s an iconic marathon, and it’s the first time I’ve done it.”

Séadhna Wilson talks about running the London Marathon

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The QR code to sponsor Séadhna Wilson (Séadhna Wilson)