Wolverhampton MP prepares for marathon challenge

Wolverhampton South West MP Stuart Anderson is currently in training to run the London Marathon in April, his first-ever attempt at completing a 26.2-mile course.

Mr Anderson, however, is used to taking on challenges, having been told he would never walk unaided again after being shot in the foot in a training accident while in the army.

He said: “I was told when I was shot that I would never be able to run again, so I was determined to prove people wrong.

“I haven’t done a marathon before, but have done extreme distances, including a 24-hour race and other long distances, but at a far steadier pace than a marathon.

“I now feel very fortunate to have this opportunity to take part in the London Marathon.”

Mr Anderson has been training around his position as an MP, running when he can in the early hours of the day, even after voting in Parliament at 11pm the previous night.

He is running the marathon to help raise funds for the Good Shepherd, a charity which provides food and other services to individuals and families living in crisis.

He also took part in the first ever Molineux Sleepout in November, part of a link-up between the Good Shepherd and Wolves Foundation, which raised over £50,000 to be shared between the two charities.

He said: “I am fortunate to have a platform to raise awareness of the Good Shepherd and have already managed on two occasions in the House of Commons to talk about all the good work that goes on here.

“I have been volunteering and helping serving meals there for the last year.

“I took part in the Molineux Sleepout in November, so this is a charity very close to my heart.”

“In taking on the London Marathon, hopefully I can continue to raise awareness and funds for the Good Shepherd.

“Also, I hope to help what I see as a long-term project to make sure we look after some of the most vulnerable people in the city.” To donate to Mr Anderson’s fundraising page, go to uk.virginmoneygiving.com and search for his name.