Mike from Formby is to run the London Marathon for the NSPCC

HAVING secured a place in 2016 Virgin Money London Marathon, Michael Szabo from Formby is calling on other people with a place in the event to support Team NSPCC in trying to raise £2.3 million to help answer every child who contacts its Childline Service.

The NSPCC is the official charity partner for the world's most iconic race in 2016, a year that also marks 30 years of its Childline service. Michael, 33, a project manager said: “I have always wanted to run the London Marathon having run two marathons before and as a parent the NSPCC was always going to be my first choice regardless of getting though the ballot or not. ”Having children gives you a different perspective on things and it makes me determined to do what I can to give children who are less fortunate a chance of a childhood.“ Kirsty Joanes NSPCC fundraiser said: ”It's fantastic that in this milestone year, we've been chosen to be the official charity of the Virgin Money London Marathon, and with runners like Michael in Team NSPCC, it will be our biggest and best team ever. “When a child contacts ChildLine to tell us they’re being abused, feeling suicidal or are in danger we take immediate steps to make them safe. But right now we can only help three out of every four children who try to contact us, and that is why we need local runners to sign up and support us. Every step, every mile, will help us keep every child safe.” Kirsty added: “If you’re one of the lucky runners who was successful in winning a ballot place then the NSPCC would still love you to join Team NSPCC!” Every runner who signs up will receive a welcome pack, running vest, and expert training and fundraising advice. On the day there will also be a post-race reception, with refreshments and a massage for all NSPCC runners to enjoy and benefit from knowing that all your hard work will help keep every child safe.“ Anyone with a confirmed place in the event who would like to run as part of Team NSPCC should visit www.nspcc.org.uk/londonmarathon