Leamington runners Mark Lloyd and Jon Lee are ramping up their training in preparation to run the Virgin London Marathon on 22 April for Cord.

Both have nearly reached fundraising targets of £1500 and £2000 which will go towards the charity’s peacebuilding work in Africa and Asia.

“I’m thrilled to be running for Cord and supporting the great work they do to help people after their lives have been destroyed by conflict," says Mark, pictured.

“I ran my first half marathon just before Christmas, so I have had to train hard to run the full marathon distance. My goal is to come in under four hours.”

Mark, who teaches drumming at Warwick School, held a Jazz concert with students to help meet his fundraising target. He has also kept up his training while on holiday in South Africa!

Jon has a personal link to Cord - he is the son of former CEO Martin Lee.   

"Cord seeks sustainable peace in Africa and Asia, celebrating justice, diversity & freedom - values I try to live out and that few can argue with," says Jon.

Fundraising manager Susan Barlow said: “We will be rooting for Mark and Jon on the day of the marathon! The money they haved raised will have a real impact as we work with people to build skills, training, education, facilities and tackle the causes of conflict."

If you would like to help Mark and Jon reach their fundraising targets you can sponsor them at:

www.justgiving.com/marklloydcord

http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/brunocheyrou