A BRADFORD mum of two is set to run the London Marathon this Sunday to say thank you to NHS staff.

Sam O’Sullivan is an administrator and receptionist at Saltaire firm Rance Booth Smith Architects, which chose Bradford Hospitals’ Charity as its Charity of the Year for 2021.

Sam said: “We always try to support charities local to us, and this year we voted unanimously in favour of Bradford Hospitals’ Charity, mainly because of the year the NHS has had with Covid-19 and the increased pressure that the staff have been under.

“With the impact that Covid has had on all of us, running has been so important to me, particularly through the various lockdowns. Running alone or with a friend has helped my physical and mental health massively.

“It means a lot to me that I raise money to support NHS staff who have supported us and our community.”

Sam, who is mum to Finn, 13, and Cillian, 10, has been juggling marathon training with her job and family.

She has built up to running 20 miles in training, so feels that, despite the nerves, she ready for the challenge.

She ran the London Marathon virtually last year, so is excited to take part in the live event in the Capital this year.

“It’s both exciting and terrifying,” she said. “I’m a little nervous to be surrounded by 40,000 people but I’m confident that organisers have made it as safe as possible and it will be a great experience.”

Hayley Collis, Head of Fundraising for Bradford Hospitals’ Charity, said: “We wish Sam the very best of luck in London, as she takes part in this iconic race.

"We are hugely grateful that Sam chose to run the marathon for our charity because the money she raises will enable us to fund projects and equipment which go over and above what the NHS can provide.

"It will also mean that we can support our hard-working NHS staff, who have had an extremely challenging time during the past 18 months.”

To sponsor Sam visit justgiving.com/fundraising/samantha-o-sullivan7