Anyone that works in the charity sector will tell you that April marks the start of a very busy few months of sporting events and activities! This year was no exception, with both the Manchester and London Marathon taking place on the same day.

Manchester and London Marathon – 27th April.

On one of the hottest days of the year so far, runners took to the streets of both Manchester and London, putting all their months of training to the test. Ahead of the London Marathon, we caught up with Claire Whittaker, who told us about her training and what it means to run for Prevent Breast Cancer:

Prevent Breast Cancer has been the charity that my entire family has supported for many years – since we discovered that my sister and I were both carriers of a gene mutation. Prevent Breast Cancer continues to explore the behaviour of our specific gene mutation – looking at new methods to inhibit its changes, new treatment approaches, and preventative choices that future generations can make.

Claire’s training journey was truly inspiring to follow, having gone from never running before to taking part in one of the world’s largest and most popular marathons. Read more about Claire’s London Marathon experience and why she supports Prevent Breast Cancer today.

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Andrea Williams told us how much running the London Marathon meant to her:

Running the London Marathon was an unforgettable experience – each mile filled with emotion, determination, and incredible support from the crowd. I was proud to run in honour of those affected by breast cancer, especially my mum who is a breast cancer survivor and waited 4 hours to watch me run past her at mile 25! Raising vital funds for Prevent Breast Cancer to help drive forward life-saving research and awareness was one of my proudest moments

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Azra from the Prevent Breast Cancer team was out cheering on our runners at the Manchester Marathon:

Living on the Marathon route, I have always enjoyed spurring the runners on, so it was an extra treat to be part of the PBC cheering team and I felt it gave me a real purpose. Seeing the determination on the faces of our runners and their big smiles, despite the challenge, was exhilarating!

Chris Buckley took part in the Manchester Marathon in support of his friends, Chris and Roisin Lawlor, who have been long-term ambassadors of the charity:

Training for a marathon is always tough, and lonely at times, but doing it to prevent breast cancer is all the motivation you need.

The atmosphere on the day was incredible, and wearing the pink PBC vest draws so much added support. It’s a charity close to many people’s hearts and running for this charity is one of my proudest moments. Here’s to the next one!

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We’re thrilled to say that our London and Manchester Marathon teams raised a combined total of over £32,000! Thank you so much to everyone who took part.

18th May – Great Manchester Run.

Just under a month later, and in slightly cooler conditions, we had another fantastic team of runners take over Manchester for the Great Manchester Run 10k and Half Marathon. This year, we had nearly 50 runners take part – one of our largest teams yet – with 41 running the 10k and 6 in the half marathon. We were kindly hosted by The Alchemist in Spinningfields for a post-race celebration – a lovely opportunity for us to thank our runners in person.

The Great Manchester Run is always a fantastic event, and the support from the crowds is electric. It’s amazing and inspiring to be part of it as a spectator and to cheer on our runners. Jamielee, from Mitchell Charlesworth, shared what the experience was like from a runner’s perspective:

A team from Mitchell Charlesworth Accountants took on the Manchester 10k to support Prevent Breast Cancer – and what a day it was! The sun was out, and with no shade on the course, it made for really tough conditions, but the amazing crowd support and music along the route really helped keep us going. We were thrilled to pass our fundraising goal and to be part of such a great cause. After crossing the finish line, we all headed to The Alchemist – the perfect way to celebrate a great day.

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This year’s team raised a staggering £22,959 for Prevent Breast Cancer. We can’t thank them enough.

All of the money raised through our sports events allows us to continue our vital work, using science to save lives. We are committed to creating a future free from breast cancer, and you can help us by taking part in one of our sports events.

Thank you again to our amazing runners in the London and Manchester Marathons and the Great Manchester Run. Your support means the world to us.

Feeling inspired? Take a look at what we have coming up or email us if you already have a place in an event and would like to raise money for Prevent Breast Cancer.

Published On: June 12th, 2025 /

Would you like to share your story?

We’re always looking to speak to people who are interested in sharing their story and experience of breast cancer. It not only helps us spread awareness but can be helpful for others who are dealing with the disease. If this is a cause close to your heart and you would be comfortable sharing your journey with other supporters, and potentially the media, then please get in touch today by emailing info@preventbreastcancer.org.uk

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About Prevent Breast Cancer

Prevent Breast Cancer is the only UK charity entirely dedicated to the prediction and prevention of breast cancer – we’re committed to freeing the world from the disease altogether. Unlike many cancer charities, we’re focused on preventing, rather than curing. Promoting early diagnosis, screening and lifestyle changes, we believe we can stop the problem before it starts. And being situated at the only breast cancer prevention centre in the UK, we’re right at the front-line in the fight against the disease. Join us today and help us create a future free from breast cancer. If you have any questions or concerns, email us today.