Southampton dad to run London Marathon dressed as knight

On Sunday, April 23, Paul Evans will take on the famous 26.2 mile running challenge across the capital. 

Paul has chosen to fundraise for Ambitious about Autism because he has a nine-year-old son who was diagnosed as autistic six years ago. 

He said: “My wife and I have been so lucky to have had continuous support from various schools, nursery, the government, local authority and charitable bodies, as well as the amazing people within those organisations - so this is just me saying thanks to everyone and giving back in my own way!”

Paul added: “Ambitious is a brilliant charity that has done incredible work to raise awareness and educate - I can't not support it.” 

This isn’t the first time Paul has participated in the iconic race. A decade ago, he completed it in three hours and 51 minutes – a time he intends to beat this year.  

However, it’s not only the goal of beating his personal best that will present a challenge.

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Paul, who now lives in London, will be competing in the marathon dressed as a knight to mark St George’s Day which also falls on the Sunday.  

Donning a tunic, cape, headpiece, cuffs, belt, knee high boots and equipped with sword and shield, he is hoping to set a Guinness World Record for the fastest marathon runner dressed as a knight.  

To boost his fundraising efforts, he has set up a JustGiving page, setting a target of £2023 which he has already exceeded by almost £2,300. So far, he has raised an incredible £4,313 and counting. 

Danae Leaman-Hill, Director of External Affairs and Development at Ambitious about Autism, said: “We are hugely grateful to our determined and dedicated London Marathon runners, whose incredible fundraising efforts play a key role in helping us carry out our vital national work that ensures autistic children and young people can be themselves and realise their ambitions.”