Catching Up – LLHM 2025

Thirty years after running the London Marathon, Police Children’s Fund Trustee Mel Warnes is looking forward to soaking up the atmosphere as she raises money by running the London Landmarks Half Marathon (LLHM).

Taking place on 6 April 2025, the LLHM weaves around Westminster and the City of London, passing grand buildings as well as quirky cobbled roads and forgotten bits of history. This is the first time that Police Children’s Fund has been a partner and five runners, including Mel, are raising money for the charity.

Mel, who has been a Trustee of Police Children’s Fund since 2021, said: “I still remember the great atmosphere when I ran the London Marathon 30 years ago, with people cheering me on and kids even giving me sweets!

“I’ve never done the London Landmarks Half Marathon before, so it will be good to take in the sights and be proud to be part of it. These big runs are always so inspirational.

“I don’t have a target time – for me it’s about taking part and giving back to an amazing charity that helps so many children.”

Mel is enjoying her training so far, especially as she has a tight group of running buddies. She said: “I’m very lucky that I have a group of friends who are of a similar running standard to me. We love to chat as we’re running – we talk about anything and everything, as it makes the time go faster and we don’t notice the hills!

“A couple of them are doing events around the same time as me, so it’s lovely that we can encourage each other in our training. We’re not interested in going particularly fast – it’s about finishing.

“On the day, I’ll be taking in the atmosphere and running my own race. And I’m sure my friends and family will be cheering me on!”

To sponsor Mel and help raise money for Police Children’s Fund, please visit www.justgiving.com/page/melanie-warnes-2