London Ambulance Service senior paramedic warns runners to focus on fun rather than finish times

London Ambulance Service’s strategic commander is urging runners to adjust their pace as temperatures rise for this weekend’s marathon.

Thousands of runners are expected to tackle the 26.2 mile route on Sunday, when it is forecast to be 22C.

Strategic commander Stuart Crichton, who’s also a paramedic, said: “This will be the year to focus on the fun rather than your finish time.

“Think about why you are taking part, the money you are raising for charity, rather than your personal best result.

“We know the heat affects performance and I would urge runners to adjust their goals and slow their pace.”

The senior paramedic is also reminding runners to consider their fluids, wear sunscreen and appropriate clothing now that the weather has taken a turn.

London Ambulance Service will have 30 extra ambulances available during the event and dozens of medical response teams on foot around the course as well as paramedics on bicycles and motorbikes to help keep runners on safe.

The Service is also opening 11 treatment centres along the route, in partnership with St John Ambulance.

Among the crowds, there will be ten runners who are taking in the gruelling challenge to raise money for the London Ambulance Charity.

They have raised more than £20,000 already and include London Ambulance Service Chief Executive Daniel Elkeles who has raised £6,600.

The money will help fund things like wellbeing initiatives for staff and volunteers out on ambulances or answering 999 calls and help save more lives by training London communities in life-saving skills.

Jessica Burgess, Head of the London Ambulance Service Charity, said: “The London Marathon is an amazing event and the atmosphere on the day is always so vibrant and exciting.

“We are so proud to have our 10 amazing runners in the race and know it’ll be a real challenge for them.

“As a result of their spectacular dedication, commitment and endurance – we are better able to support paramedics and call handlers who care for Londoners every day.”

For more information about supporting London Ambulance Charity please visit www.londonambulancecharity.org.uk