An avid Andover runner is striking the London pavements for a third time to raise funds - this time for the Army Benevolent Fund.  

Tracey Dawber, 53 from Upper Clatford has entered the London Marathon in 2025 and said: “Usually I raise funds for animal charities, but next year I want to make a difference to something very close to my heart.

"Having seen firsthand the long-lasting effects of what combat can do to a person, I couldn't be more proud to be running for the Army Benevolent Fund. The ABF supports soldiers, veterans, and their families and is a truly inspiring organisation.”

Tracey has already begun her fundraising efforts for the charity.

On Friday, November 1 she raised an impressive £755 through a raffle at the Clatford Arms pub, near Andover with many local businesses donating prizes.

She added: “The pub was hugely kind enough to host it and everyone was very generous, so we’re off to a flying start.”

A regular on the half marathon circuit, Tracey said she’ll start training after Christmas: “I love running for mental health and well-being, it’s time out on my own. This will probably be my third and final marathon. The knees really are feeling it, but when I turn 60 I’m planning to run the London Marathon with my daughter who’ll be 18 years old.”

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Tracey’s husband left the army over 25 years ago with PTSD and is currently a serving police officer with the Hampshire Constabulary. Tracey said: “The Army Benevolent Fund cares for every single veteran that comes out of the army. I want to raise awareness of this incredible charity and the work they do.”

She added: “Please help me help them by giving whatever you can The more people that know about ABF, the greater their impact, so please also spread the word by sharing my page with your friends and family. Thank you in advance for your generosity, it means so much!”

To donate, please go to the following link: events.armybenevolentfund.org/fundraisers/traceydawber/londonmarathon2025