Runners who took on the London Marathon in memory of Elsie Dot Stancombe have raised a staggering £22,000 for Elsie’s Story – the charity set up in her name. The team of runners also included Elsie’s schoolmates who took part in the London Mini Marathon.
David Stancombe, Elsie’s dad, took on the 26.2-mile challenge for the second consecutive year in support of Elsie’s Story.
This year, David ran side by side with Sergio Aguiar, who was running in memory of his daughter, Alice, raising money for Alice’s WonderDance Foundation. While both men completed the marathon last year, this was the first time they ran it together – united in their determination to honour their daughters.
Over the past year, the two have formed a close friendship, supporting one another through incredibly difficult times, and it was important for David to run alongside Sergio and to be there for each other, both mentally and physically. Running together has become a source of strength for them both with David describing running as his ‘therapy’.
Speaking after completing the marathon, David said: “Every mile of the marathon was for Elsie. There were moments when it was really tough, but thinking about Elsie pushed me through. I think of her every minute of every day but during the marathon, she gives me the strength to keep going.
“Completing the race alongside Sergio was incredibly special. We’ve been through a lot together and it meant so much to have him by my side. It was an absolute privilege to be by his side when he received his medal for completing the sixth and final World Marathon Major in memory of Alice. It’s such an amazing achievement to run six marathons in such a short space of time and I was so proud to run next to him in London. We’re very grateful for all the support we’ve received, it means so much to us all.”
David and Sergio were presented with Spirit of London Marathon Awards which grants them a place in the marathon for life.
David’s marathon effort followed a powerful show of support from the local community, with seven children from Farnborough Road School taking part in the Mini London Marathon on Saturday, running in memory of their friend.
David said: “This year, the whole weekend felt very special. It was great to see Elsie’s friends running the mini marathon on Saturday and we’re so grateful to them for the support they’ve given us and the money they’ve raised. Seeing her friends come together in London and enjoy themselves while raising money to help others, is exactly what Elsie’s Story is about.”
Elsie’s Story was established in 2025 and is committed to bringing joy, support, and hope to children facing life’s toughest challenges. Inspired by Elsie’s journey, the charity was founded with a clear mission: to ensure that every child, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to create precious memories with their loved ones. Whether it’s organising special experiences, funding vital support, or simply offering comfort during difficult times, Elsie’s Story is dedicated to making a difference.
Also running for Elsie’s Story was Josh Orr-Lang, Samantha Wright, Joel Fitzgerald, James Rimmer, Emily Flanagan and Lisa Lowery.
Emily, a year two teacher at Farnborough Road, and Lisa, a learning mentor, supported the children running the Mini Marathon before taking on the London Marathon the following day. They both knew Elsie during her time at the school and they have since been a huge support to her classmates.
Emily Flanagan said: “It was an honour to run for Elsie’s Story. Knowing I was running for Elsie, with her name on my top, kept me going through the tough parts and thinking about her determination, positivity and smile allowed me to find a new level of motivation. Being part of her school community, she is never far from our thoughts, and to see so many children take part in the Mini Marathon was incredibly moving. Supporting them and then running the marathon ourselves has been a really special experience.
“I want to thank Elsie’s Story for their support throughout the whole process and for giving me an opportunity to achieve something I never thought possible and feeling like if you put your mind to something – you can do it.”
Lisa Lowery said: “It has been my honour to run the Mini Marathon and the London Marathon for Elsie. It’s so hard to ever put into words just how much this means for all of us in the community and beyond. However, one thing is for certain – Elsie’s passion for life, her kindness and her sense of fun will never be forgotten. Running alongside her friends and family has helped spread hope, kindness and togetherness amongst our community to which continues Elsie’s legacy. We will always ensure Elsie stays close in our hearts.”
- To support the charity or find out more, please visit www.elsiesstory.org or www.justgiving.com/charity/elsiesstory
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