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Nick was all fired up to compete in the world’s most popular marathon in 2019. But after many months of fundraising, not to mention training, he was left red-faced.

To his horror, with just days to go, he realised he had made a mistake with his entry and did not actually have a place.

However, rather than let everyone down, as thousands ran the London route Nick hit the streets of Sheffield solo to run his own version.

Refusing to let friends accompany him, or even cheer him on, he set off from his Crosspool home and ran through Sheffield’s industrial backwaters. A long and lonely five hours and four minutes later, he had raised £14,000 for Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice at North Anston.

But this year, he will definitely be running the London Marathon in London – thanks to Bluebell Wood.

When the hospice heard it had been awarded one charity place for the 2020 race, Rachael Dawes, its corporate fundraising manager, invited supporters to pitch for it.

Nick entered and was delighted to win.

The 45-year-old said: “I hardly dare believe that this time, I’m really going to be there, especially now I realise how hard it is to get a place - even if you do the paperwork right.”

Rachael said: “We are delighted he is going to be running for us and so grateful to him and every other marathon entrant who will be raising money for us that day.

To sponsor Nick, visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/NickGoodson