Press Report 17th February 2026

Capital gains for Ilford athlete

London Winter run (10k)
The London Winter run raises funds for Cancer Research UK and celebrated its 10 year Anniversary this year with probably the wettest coldest run in its history.

The 10k route starts on Trafalgar Square and passes such iconic London Landmarks as St. Pauls Cathedral and St. Mary-le-Bow church, home of the famous Bow Bells, before finishing on Whitehall alongside the Cenotaph. The route is lined with Polar Bears, Penguins and Yetis – or at least people dressed up as such.

This year’s Ambassador and official race starter was Eddie ‘The Eagle’ Edwards.

Despite the torrential rain for the duration of the day, and freezing cold, over 26,000 athletes braved the conditions including Ilford’s Billy Green.

Billy was pleased with his time of 52.47 and dedicated his run to fellow club member Nicola Hopkinson, who lost her own battle with cancer just over 2 years ago.

Fauja Singh BEM

On Saturday at Redbridge Recreation ground Ilford Ac were represented by Ernie Forsyth and Ray ‘Sparra’ Everingham at the unveiling of a plaque for Fauja Singh BEM.
Although no official records validate his age, he is believed to be the oldest man to run a marathon, aged 100, and was an inspiration to runners in his community and beyond.