A COLCHESTER runner who fractured his foot is taking on the London Marathon in a bid to encourage other men to talk about their mental health.

Mark Lankester, of King Stephen Road, will be tackling the 26.2 mile race to raise money for Mind - the mental health charity.

As well as raising funds, the 36-year-old is also preparing to pound the pavements to encourage more men to open up about their mental health.

Mark said: “I think sometimes men can be particularly bad at talking openly about their mental health, or just their feelings in general.

"It’s sort of expected from an early age that we won’t talk about or show our emotions. 

“Mental health issues are something that so many of us go through so it’s really important to talk about it and seek help when we need it. 

“I don’t know if perhaps it can be perceived as weak to seek support when you’re struggling but actually it’s a really tough and really brave thing to do.”

“I wanted to support Mind because their service has been more valuable to me than I can put into words.

"Running is a fundamental part of my own wellbeing, and I’ve thrown myself into seven marathons to prove that I can, especially when I feel like I can’t.”

Mark, a member of the Colchester Harriers Athletics Club, first ran the Brighton Marathon in 2016 for Mind and has run seven marathons overall.

After a fractured foot left him on crutches, however, he has had to build-up his fitness levels again before taking on the epic challenge.

He added: “When I fractured my foot and I could no longer run, it was a reminder of just how much I rely on running for my mental wellbeing. 

“Since then, I’ve had to slowly but surely get back into running again so I’m definitely not at the fitness level I used to be but I’m determined to get there again in the next few months.”

Mark hopes to raise more than £2,000 for Mind when he dons his running shoes for the iconic London Marathon taking place on Sunday, April 21, 2024.

To support Mark and raise funds for Mind, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/markmind2024.