Together, we’re making every mile matter.
We’re delighted to introduce Paul Freeman, who will be taking on the TCS London Marathon 2027 as our first runner to represent YMCA Taunton.
Paul has set himself an incredible challenge. Over the next 9 months, he’ll be training to complete one of the world’s most iconic marathons while aiming to raise £10,000 to support children, young people and families across our local community.
His journey marks the beginning of The Road to London 2027, a new fundraising campaign that we’ll be sharing over the coming months. From training updates and fundraising events to community stories and milestone moments, we hope you’ll join us every step of the way.
A dream with a purpose
For Paul, running the London Marathon has always been a personal ambition.
“Having entered the ballot for a number of years, the opportunity to work with such an important local charity makes it even more special,” he said.
When he heard that YMCA Taunton was looking for a marathon runner, he knew it was an opportunity he couldn’t miss.
“I felt this would be a wonderful opportunity to partner with a local community charity.”
Being chosen as YMCA Taunton’s first London Marathon runner is something Paul describes as a genuine privilege.
“Knowing this motivates me to give my all in both the fundraising and the marathon itself. I look forward to working closely with the team so that we can enjoy this shared experience and get the most benefit.”
A community partnership
Paul and his wife, Sarah, are the landlords of The Five Dials Inn in Horton, and they’re already planning a calendar of community fundraising events alongside YMCA Taunton.
Over the coming months, supporters can look forward to a variety of events hosted both at the YMCA and at The Five Dials, bringing people together to have fun, support Paul’s challenge and raise vital funds for local children, young people and families.
It’s a partnership built around community, and we can’t wait to share what’s coming next.
Why YMCA Taunton?
Paul chose to support YMCA Taunton because he believes in the difference the charity makes every day.
“I particularly appreciated their work with young carers and the support they provide to families, including their community pantry. The management team are passionate about the service they give and have big plans for the future. It is great to know that our fundraising will have a real impact on lives in our local community.”
Every pound raised will help YMCA Taunton continue supporting children, young people and families through youth activities, wellbeing projects, community support, climbing, parkour and inclusive opportunities, while helping us invest in the future of the charity and the people it serves.
The training has begun
Although race day is still some time away, Paul is already putting in the hard work.
“I’ve joined a running club, started resistance training and have a couple of races planned over the coming months. I really want to make the most of this opportunity with plenty of time until the big day.”
Throughout The Road to London 2027, we’ll be following Paul’s progress, celebrating fundraising milestones and inviting our community to get involved along the way.
Looking ahead
One of the things that motivates Paul most is knowing that every donation will make a real difference locally.
“One of the best things about representing YMCA Taunton is knowing that any funds raised will have an immediate positive impact. So much work has already been done, but there is much more planned. Any extra funds will support the future of the centre and the people who use it.”
And when race day finally arrives, Paul already knows the moment he’s looking forward to most.
“Having been there to support my wife last year, I know how incredible the atmosphere is. I think the highlight for me will be the final few hundred metres running down The Mall towards the finish line.”
Join us on the Road to London
Whether you donate, attend one of our fundraising events, share Paul’s story or simply cheer him on, you’ll be helping to make a real difference in our community.
You can support Paul’s challenge by donating through his JustGiving page: www.justgiving.com/page/paul-freeman-1780594295107
Over the next 9 months, we’ll be sharing regular updates as Paul takes on this incredible challenge. We hope you’ll follow his journey, celebrate every milestone and become part of The Road to London 2027.
Together, we’re making every mile matter.
