A Master of Music at Norwich Cathedral has raised more than £50,000 for Great Ormond Street Hospital after completing his third London Marathon.
Ashley Grote took on the annual Virgin Money London Marathon on Sunday 23 April 2017 to raise vital funds for Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity. He joined more than 39,000 runners as he negotiated the stunning 26.2 mile course passing London's iconic landmarks.
Mr Grote completed the Marathon in three hours 40 minutes and took part on behalf of the charity after his daughter Emily was referred to Great Ormond Street Hospital at just three years old when she was diagnosed with a large brain tumour.
He said he has had great support from his local community in Norwich, in particular the congregation at Norwich Cathedral.
He said: 'It was very special to take on the London Marathon and raise so much money for Great Ormond Street Hospital, doing this is a constant reminder of how they have helped to support Emily and keep her well.
'I am fortunate to be well placed with my work as a professional musician to generate sponsorship, not least because Emily is a much-loved member of the community at Norwich Cathedral where we live. I feel this is the least I can do on behalf of our family for Great Ormond Street Hospital after all they have done, and continue to do for us.'
More than 400 supporters took part on behalf of Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity and are expected to raise more than £700,000.
The money raised will go towards the hospital's most urgent needs including pioneering new treatments and research, providing cutting edge equipment and supporting the redevelopment of the hospital to provide state-of-the-art facilities to match the hospital's world-class care.
Laura Savory, head of community fundraising at Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity, said of the event: 'We're really grateful to Ashley and all our supporters for taking part in this amazing challenge.
'With their help we can make a real difference for to the lives of seriously ill children from across the UK.'
To sponsor Ashley please visit: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ashleymarathon2017
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here