Farmers and agricultural workers across Lincolnshire will be cheering on two runners in particular among the thousands tackling the New York Marathon this Sunday (November 1).

For Alex Godfrey and his husband, James, are taking on the iconic challenge to raise vital funds for the Lincolnshire Rural Support Network (LRSN), which helps families get through hard times. And they have already smashed their initial £9,000 target.

Alex is a trustee of the long-standing charity and is also a director of his family’s farming business, while James, a childcare solicitor, is an ardent supporter of the LRSN.

Both are keen runners, but the challenge marks a significant milestone. For James, it will be his first marathon, despite previously insisting he could never run one!

On the run -- Alex and James in training for their New York Marathon challenge this coming Sunday (November 1).

placeholder image — On the run -- Alex and James in training for their New York Marathon challenge this coming Sunday (November 1).

Alex has already completed a marathon-distance challenge, running almost entirely solo on the roads of north Lincolnshire as part of the LRSN’s Mad May Marathon campaign in 2021. However, this will be his first time taking part in an organised mass marathon event.

Since Alex’s first LRSN challenge, the pair have continued running and are now ready to put their training to the test across the pond, all in support of a cause that means so much to them.

Alex said: “As a farmer myself, I understand some of the pressures and challenges that come with working in agriculture.

“Farming can be incredibly rewarding, but there are times when things feel difficult, and having someone to turn to can make all the difference.

Alex and James all set for their New York Marathon challenge.

"The LRSN is here to make sure people in our farming community don’t have to face those challenges alone. As a trustee, I see how important that support is, and James and I wanted to do something to help the charity continue being there for the people who need it.

“Taking on the New York Marathon together is a huge challenge, particularly as it will be James’s first marathon.

"But knowing we’re raising money for a cause so close to our hearts makes every mile worthwhile.

"We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported us so far and hope we can raise even more to help the LRSN continue its work across Lincolnshire.”

The LRSN is a charity providing free, confidential pastoral and practical support to people working in farming, horticulture and associated industries.

Through its helpline and team of caseworkers, the charity offers a listening ear, home and farm visits, advice points and health screening clinics.

It also runs initiatives such as Future Farmers, Women In Wellies and Welly Wednesdays, helping people connect with others, look after their wellbeing and build resilience.

The charity’s mission is simple: no-one in Lincolnshire’s agricultural and horticultural communities, or their allied industries, should have to face difficulty alone.

Whether someone is experiencing financial pressure, anxiety, family issues or other challenges, the LRSN is there to help them find a way forward.

Every donation raised by Alex and James will help the LRSN continue this vital work, ensuring support is available to people and families across Lincolnshire’s rural communities when they need it most.

Alex and James have already raised a superb total of more than £9,600, but supporters can still help them reach even more people through their fundraising challenge.

To support them help make a difference to Lincolnshire’s farming community, visit their JustGiving page at www.justgiving.com/campaign/alexandjames.