Later this month, a local fundraiser will be taking on the London Marathon in support of Emmaus Salford.

Will Atkinson, aged 24 and originally from Kendal, is gearing up to take part in the London Marathon on Sunday 28 April. Will applied to take on the 26.2 mile run for Emmaus because of his desire to test himself as well as raising money and awareness for a good cause.

Will said: “The issues of homelessness, fuel poverty and increased dependency on food banks are very topical at present. With an Emmaus community situated close to where I live and work in Salford, I’ve seen the fantastic work these guys do and I am proud be able to raise a bit of money for them. With the difficult winter training now out of the way, and hundreds of laps of Media City under my belt, I’m looking forward to the big day!”

Emmaus Salford supports formerly homeless people by offering a home, meaningful work in a social enterprise and an opportunity to get back on their feet again. The charity operates shops at Fitzwarren Street and Seaford Road in Salford, as well as the Emmaus Emporium in Swinton.

Rachel Richardson, Assistant Community Manager of Emmaus Salford, said: “We are extremely grateful to Will for taking on this huge challenge for Emmaus Salford. Benefitting from the support of members of the Salford community is essential for our charity and Will’s London Marathon run is a great example of someone who is going the extra mile in support of people who have experienced homelessness.”

If you would like to learn more about Will’s fundraiser and donate, visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/will-atkinson-marathon

To learn more and support Emmaus Salford, head to www.emmaus.org.uk/salford. If you would like to get involved or donate an item, please call 0161 737 8279 or visit one of the shops at Fitzwarren Street, Seaford Road or Partington Lane.