London Marathon 2022: Volunteers pull together for one of UK’s ‘biggest events’

Volunteers manning the TCS London Marathon 2022 have told how the race day is one of the “biggest events in the UK” and one of the “biggest marathons in the world”.

This year’s London Marathon, held today (Sunday, October 2) is set to see up to 40,000 runners cross the finish line in central London.

Ethiopian athlete Yalemzerf Yehualaw, 23, won the women’s elite race in 2:17:25 - her first London marathon - while Kenyan runner, Amos Kipruto, 30, won the men’s elite race in 2:04:17.

Volunteering is organised through groups, which include running clubs, schools and universities, scout groups, police cadets, the London Fire Brigade, and ParkRun.

Over 6,000 volunteers make the event possible every year.

And volunteer Chandra, 27, told LondonWorld: “I volunteered because it is one of the biggest events in the UK and one of the biggest marathons in the world.

“I wanted to take part.. I’m not able to run this year so I wanted to volunteer and maybe try again next year.”

The student added: “You just sign up on the website and choose the role that you want.”

Fellow marshal Claire, also aged 27, said: “I’ve got a friend who is running today and he gave me the idea of volunteering.

“Why not help and be there for him on his run - so that’s what I did.”

The traveller added: “I’m not from England so I just thought why not, I’ll try it out.

“I also volunteered yesterday at the mini marathon. I love volunteering when I go somewhere to meet new people - we became friends.”

The pair, who have been up and about since 7am this morning, are part of the small army of volunteers who man the race course, provide water, hand out medals and look after runners.

Most volunteers, who will work until 5-6pm this evening, are involved in marshalling the course - while others provide traffic information, man VIP areas, set help and clear away.

A spokesperson for the TCS London Marathon said: “Every year approximately 6,000 brilliant volunteers join the TCS London Marathon team and play a crucial role in the delivery of the event.

“If you are a community group, charity, sports club or any other group that may be interested in volunteering at the event, please email [email protected] with your name and contact details.”

For more information, visit the TCS London Marathon website.