Support quality, independent, local journalism…that matters

From just £1 a month you can help fund our work – and use our website without adverts. Become a member today

Caerphilly’s Member of Parliament is set to run the London Marathon to support families with disabled children.

Labour’s Chris Evans will be running the 26.2-mile course on April 27 to raise money for the charity Contact.

Mr Evans has ran the London Marathon twice before, but will this time be joined by his wife Julia.

The couple will be part of a 17-strong team of runners raising money for Contact.

The charity supports families with children who have additional needs, through a national helpline, workshops and one-to-one support.

In Wales, Contact delivers informative workshops and weekly online drop-in sessions, where parents can get advice and support.

Ex-Islwyn MP Mr Evans, who is a long-time supporter of Contact, said: “I’ve always carved out a space in my diary for a regular morning run – it gives me time to plan and reflect. I often find my best ideas, or solutions to problems, come to me while out running.

“I have now signed up to do the London Marathon for Contact, a charity close to my heart, for a third time. The work that they do to support families with disabled children in Wales and the rest of the UK is vital, and provides a lifeline to so many who need support.”

Beena Patel, individual giving manager at Contact, said: “We know that running 26 miles is a monumental challenge. We’re incredibly proud and humbled by our runners’ dedication, hard work, training and fundraising to support our work.

“It really does make a difference and helps us to continue to provide vital support to families with disabled children up and down the country.

“That’s why we will be there on the day cheering and congratulating their efforts to help us help more families with disabled children.”

Visit JustGiving to make a donation to Mr Evans’ online fundraiser for Contact.