Havering's Emily Defroand admitted running the 2023 London Marathon was 'far from enjoyable' but was proud to do so in memory of her late aunt Helen.

The former Great Britain hockey international and brother Alex were running to raise funds and awareness for Lymphoma Action.

And Defroand, 28, was happy to complete the 26.2-mile course through the capital and cross it off her late aunt's bucket list.

“Every year, whether in person or on TV, I join the rest of the country in watching the London Marathon – in awe of those embarking on the 26.2 mile challenge around the streets of the capital," she said.

“The power of the London Marathon is that everyone has their own reasons behind taking part - whether it be to fundraise for a charity close to their hearts, for personal growth or just for the fun of it!

“I've always said that I would love to run the London Marathon one day but throughout my international hockey career, it wasn’t something that I could even begin to consider. Not to mention my unfortunate injury record.

“When we sadly lost Auntie Helen to Burkitt lymphoma last November, I felt I had the perfect cause. Running the London Marathon was always top of Auntie Helen’s bucket list but unfortunately, she never had the opportunity to do it in her lifetime.

“So, to be able to run this year’s London Marathon in Auntie Helen’s memory, whilst raising some much-needed awareness and funds for Lymphoma Action – the UK’s only charity dedicated to Lymphoma, was something I took real pride in.

“Come rain or shine – mostly rain to be honest! – I did as much training as I could. Sharing the experience with one of my older brothers, Alex - also running for Lymphoma Action, definitely helped with keeping my motivation up throughout the colder days.

“In terms of Marathon Day, it was quite the experience. My body started to break down from mile five but the thought of Auntie Helen and the incredible support that I had received in the lead up to, and on April 23, got me to the finish line.

“It wasn’t pretty, it was far from enjoyable but I am so proud of my brother Alex and I for raising nearly £10,000 for Lymphoma Action.”

To make a donation, visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/emily-defroand.