A former Reading School pupil will return to his old school this April as part of a challenge to run seven marathons in seven consecutive days for Samaritans.
Chris Fordham, 43, who grew up in Lower Earley and attended the school between 1994 and 2001, will run from Oxford to Reading on 23 April, finishing the stage at Reading School before continuing his journey to London via Windsor on 24 April.
The run forms part of The Long Run for Mental Health, a seven-day, seven-marathon challenge culminating in the 2026 London Marathon.
Chris, now a commercial airline pilot, is undertaking the challenge in memory of a close friend who died by suicide earlier last year.
“I was heartbroken by the loss of my friend. I felt compelled to do something meaningful,” he said.
“Running has taught me that our minds are often tougher than we think — but in life we still need the support of others to get through difficult periods.”
He hopes the challenge will raise awareness of men’s mental health and encourage people to seek support when they are struggling.
“No matter how difficult things feel, there are people who care. And if you can’t reach out to those around you, Samaritans are there to listen. You’re not alone.”
Samaritans provides a 24-hour confidential listening service for anyone in emotional distress.
Chris said returning to Reading School would be a significant moment in the challenge.
“Reading is where I grew up and the school, in particular, had such a profound impact on my life. Finishing that stage back at Reading School feels particularly meaningful.”
He has already raised more than £6,000, with around three weeks to go before the challenge begins, and hopes to reach at least £10,000 by race day.
Local supporters and fellow Old Redingensians are being encouraged to join the final stretch into Reading or come along to show their support.
Please do contact at chrisfordham@outlook.com or 07922 544433 If there is more information you require to run the story.
Donations can be made at: https://www.justgiving.com/page/thelongrunformentalhealth?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL&utm_campaign=020
His Route is as folllows:
Day 1 – Lydney – Gloucester (20 April)
Day 2 – Gloucester – Swindon (21 April)
Day 3 – Swindon – Oxford (22 April)
Day 4 – Oxford – Reading (23 April)
Day 5 – Reading – Windsor (24 April)
Day 6 – Windsor – Greenwich (25 April)
Day 7 – London Marathon (26 April)
